Marengo County, Alabama - Alabama Emergency … · Drought/Heat Waves ... Table 9 Lightning events in Marengo County, Alabama since ... Geographic setting and history – Marengo

Marengo County, Alabama

Multi‐Jurisdictional Natural Hazards Mitigation Plan

March 2015

Freddie L. Armstead, Commissioner District 1 Dan England, Commissioner District 2

John Crawford, Jr., Commissioner District 3 Calvin Martin, Commissioner District 4

Michael Thompson, Commissioner District 5

Kevin McKinney, Executive Director Marengo County Emergency Management Agency and E911

Marengo County, Alabama

Unicorporated Marengo County

Town of Dayton

City of Demopolis

Town of Faunsdale

City of Linden

Town of Myrtlewood

Town of Providence

Town of Sweetwater

Town of Thomaston

Multi‐Jurisdictional Natural Hazards Mitigation Plan

March 2015

Freddie L. Armstead, Commissioner District 1 Dan England, Commissioner District 2

John Crawford, Jr., Commissioner District 3 Calvin Martin, Commissioner District 4

Michael Thompson, Commissioner District 5

Kevin McKinney, Executive Director Marengo County Emergency Management Agency and E911

Table of Contents

1. Background and Purposes of the Plan

a. About the Plan ............................................................................................. 1

b. Scope ............................................................................................................ 1

c. Authority ...................................................................................................... 1

d. Funding ....................................................................................................... 1

e. Purposes ...................................................................................................... 2

f. What has been updated in this section ....................................................... 2

2. County Profile

a. Geographic setting and history .................................................................... 3

b. Government ................................................................................................. 4

c. Demographics .............................................................................................. 4

d. Economy ...................................................................................................... 7

e. Climate ......................................................................................................... 8

f. Physical features .......................................................................................... 9

g. Transportation ........................................................................................... 11

h. Utilities ....................................................................................................... 12

i. What has been updated in this section ..................................................... 12

3. Planning Process

a. Hazard Mitigation Planning Committee .................................................... 13

b. Public Involvement .................................................................................... 18

c. Interagency and intergovernmental coordination .................................... 21

d. Participating jurisdictions .......................................................................... 21

e. Integration with existing plans .................................................................. 21

f. What has been updated in this section ..................................................... 21

4. Risk Assessment

a. Risk Assessment Process............................................................................ 23

b. Identification of Risks................................................................................. 23

c. Federally‐declared disasters ...................................................................... 24

d. Hurricane/Tropical Storm .......................................................................... 24

e. Flood .......................................................................................................... 27

f. Severe Storms ............................................................................................ 30

g. Tornadoes .................................................................................................. 42

h. Wildfire ...................................................................................................... 48

i. Drought/Heat Waves ................................................................................. 52

j. Winter Storms/Freezes .............................................................................. 55

k. Levee/Dam Failures ................................................................................... 56

l. Landslides .................................................................................................. 58

m. Earthquakes ............................................................................................... 66

n. Vulnerability Assessment and Identification of Assets .............................. 62

i. Building Assets ....................................................................... 63

ii. Critical Facilities ...................................................................... 63

iii. Estimated Losses by Hazard .................................................. 77

iv. Analysis of Development Trends ........................................... 80

v. Risk Assessment by Jurisdiction ............................................ 80

o. What has been updated in this section .................................................... 81

5. Mitigation Strategies

a. Purpose of Mitigation Strategies......................................................... 82

b. Identification and Analysis of Mitigation Measures ........................... 82

c. Types of Mitigation Activities .............................................................. 82

d. Existing Hazard Mitigation Activities ................................................... 83

e. Mitigation Issues and Opportunities ................................................... 85

f. Mitigation Policies Plan ...................................................................... 86

i. Unincorporated Marengo County Mitigation Measures ....... 88

ii. Town of Dayton Mitigation Measures ................................... 97

iii. City of Demopolis Mitigation Measures ............................... 106

iv. Town of Faunsdale Mitigation Measures ............................. 115

v. City of Linden Mitigation Measures ..................................... 124

vi. Town of Myrtlewood Mitigation Measures ......................... 133

vii. Town of Providence Mitigation Measures ........................... 142

viii. Town of Sweet Water Mitigation Measures ....................... 151

ix. Town of Thomaston Mitigation Measures ........................... 161

6. Plan Maintenance .......................................................................................... 170

7. Approval and Adoption .................................................................................. 172

8. Appendices

a. Appendix A – 44 CFR 201 Hazard Mitigation Planning ............................ i

b. Appendix B – Sign in sheets for each meeting .................................... xiii

c. Appendix C – Resolutions by each entity adopting the Plan Update. . xx

d. Appendix D – Completed Local Mitigation Plan Review Crosswalk .. xxix

List of Acronyms

AEMA ................................................... Alabama Emergency Management Agency

FEMA ......................................................... Federal Emergency Management Agency

HMGP ................................................................... Hazard Mitigation Grant Program

NCDC ........................................................................... National Climate Data Center

NFIP ...................................................................... National Flood Insurance Program

NWS .................................................................................. National Weather Service

PDM ....................................................................................... Pre‐Disaster Mitigation

List of Maps

Map 1 Location Map of Marengo County, Alabama Map 2 2010 Population by Census Tract in Marengo County, Alabama Map 3 Marengo County Digital Elevation Model Map 4 National Land Cover Database for Marengo County Map 5 Major Transportation in Marengo County, Alabama Map 6 Marengo County Special Flood Hazard Area (100‐year floodplain) Map 7 Fires per 1000 acres in Marengo County, Alabama Map 8 Marengo County Fire Risks Map 9 Dams in Marengo County Map 10 Statewide Landslide Incidences in and Susceptibility by County Map 11 Historical Incidences of Earthquakes in Marengo County, Alabama Map 12 Probabilities of Incidences of Earthquakes Map 13 Marengo County Communication Facilities Map 14 Marengo County Emergency Facilities Map 15 Marengo County Hazardous Facilities Map 16 Marengo County Medical Facilities Map 17 Marengo County Schools

List of Charts

Chart 1 Population of Marengo County and Unincorporated Areas in 2000 and 2010. Chart 2 Population Marengo County Incorporated Areas in 2000 and 2010 Chart 3 2010 Marengo County Race Data

List of Tables

Table 1 Summary of economic data for Marengo County Table 2 List of Organizations Invited to Participate in Hazard Mitigation Planning Kickoff Meeting Table 3 Assessment of Perceived Risk of from Hazards Table 4 Summary of Federal Disasters in Marengo County, Alabama Table 5 Major hurricanes/tropical impacted Marengo County over the 20 years Table 6 Flooding events in Marengo County, Alabama Table 7 Hail storms in Marengo County, Alabama Table 8 High wind events from thunderstorms in Marengo County, Alabama Table 9 Lightning events in Marengo County, Alabama since 1994 Table 10 Tornadoes in Marengo County, Alabama Table 11 Excessive Heat events in Marengo County, Alabama Table 12 Winter Storm events in Marengo County, Alabama

Table 13 Population vulnerable to hazards in Marengo County, Alabama Table 14 Number of building exposed to hazards in Marengo County, Alabama Table 15 Value of Property exposed to Hazards in Marengo County, Alabama Table 16 Vulnerability of the types and number of future buildings, infrastructure, and critical facilities located in Hazard Areas (Note – this analysis assumes a 0% growth rate) Table 17 Value of Future Property exposed to Hazards in Marengo County, Alabama (source HAZUS and Marengo County Commission). Table 18 Multi‐ Jurisdictional Risk Assessment

List of Figures

Figure 1 Advertisement published in the Democrat Reporter March 19 and March 26 2015 Figure 2 Empirical Probability of a Named Storm Figure 3 Original and Enhance Fujita Scale for U.S. tornadoes Figure 4 Historical Tornado Tracks in Marengo County Figure 5 Tornadoes per 1,000 square miles Figure 6 Wind Zones in the United States Figure 7 U.S. Drought Monitor

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1. Background and Purposes of the Plan

a. About the Plan ‐ On October 30, 2000, the United States Congress passed the Disaster Mitigation

Action Act of 2000. This act requires a local jurisdiction to develop and adopt hazard mitigation

plans in order to receive federal funding from the Hazard Mitigation Program (HMGP) or the Pre‐

Disaster Mitigation Program (PDM). Hazard Mitigation is any sustained action taken to reduce or

eliminate the long‐term risk to human life and property from hazards. Mitigation activities may be

implemented prior to, during, or after an incident. However, it has been demonstrated that

hazard mitigation is most effective when based on an inclusive, comprehensive, long‐term plan

that is developed before a disaster occurs.

The Marengo County Multi‐Jurisdictional Natural Hazards Mitigation Plan is an update to the

previously approved plan which was approved by FEMA in 2010. In 2012 , the Marengo County

Commission was awarded a HMGP grant (1971‐713) to update the previously‐approved plan so

that Marengo County will meet the eligibility requirements for PDM and HMGP funding.

b. Scope – The Marengo County Multi‐Jurisdictional Natural Hazards Mitigation Plan includes

numerous entities located within Marengo County Alabama. These entities include both

incorporated and unincorporated areas along with rural water authorities and the Marengo

County Board of Education, City Board of Education, City of Demopolis Board of Education. The

plan update followed the guidance provided by the Federal Emergency Management Agency

(FEMA) entitled Local Mitigation Plan Review Guide (October 1, 2011). This document will contain

all of the required elements in order to be eligible for federal funding.

c. Authority – Section 409 of the Robert T. Stafford Disaster and Relief Act (Public Law 93‐288, as

amended) and Title 44 CFR, as amended by Section 102 of the Disaster Mitigation Act of 2000

provide the framework for state and local governments to evaluate and mitigate all hazards as a

condition for receiving Federal disaster assistance. A major requirement of the law is the

development and adoption of a local hazard mitigation plan.

d. Funding – On December 14, 2013, FEMA awarded an HMGP (1971‐713) grant to the Alabama

Emergency Management Agency (AEMA) for $30,000.00 with a federal share (75%) of $7,500.

Donation of staff time from the local community was used as the required match for the grant.

e. Purposes ‐ Hazard mitigation is any action taken to permanently reduce or eliminate long‐ term

risks to people and their property from the effects of hazards. Natural hazards come in many

forms: tornadoes, floods, hurricanes, severe storms, winter freezes, droughts, landslides, or dam

failures resulting from natural disaster crises. Communities can take steps to prepare and

implement mitigation techniques for almost any type of hazard that may threaten its citizens,

businesses and institutions. Hazard mitigation planning helps to identify a range of structural

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approaches to lower the costs of future disasters by meeting the unique needs of the

community. For example, structural mitigation projects for flooding could involve modifying a

stream channel to increase the conveyance of floodwaters or retarding the flow rate by the

construction of detention facilities. Mitigation strategies can also involve non‐structural

initiatives, such as educational programs to inform homeowners of their vulnerability to natural

disasters in order to encourage them to purchase insurance or retrofit their homes. Non‐

structural programs can also include developing and enforcing regulations to prevent

construction in hazard areas, or to ensure that development that does occur will be resistant to

the hazards threatening the area.

Mitigation programs and projects serve to lessen a community's vulnerability to the hardships

and costs of disasters. The implementation of mitigation programs is a key component to

achieving a sustainable community, one in which the economic and social needs of people,

businesses, and institutions coexist with natural environmental constraints and are protected

from the disruptions and impacts of emergencies and disasters. Hazard mitigation planning

must be closely coordinated with a community's overall planning and development efforts. The

most effective way for a community to initiate this objective is through a comprehensive local

mitigation planning program, as presented here. Comprehensive planning can provide Marengo

County citizens a safe, healthy and prosperous place in which to live and work.

The purpose of the Marengo County Multi‐Jurisdictional Hazard Mitigation Plan is to develop

a unified approach among its local governments for dealing with identified hazards and hazard

management problems. This plan serves as a guide for local governments in their ongoing efforts

to reduce vulnerability to the impacts produced by natural hazards.

Further, the plan seeks to accomplish the following additional purposes: 1. Establish an ongoing hazard mitigation planning program 2. Identify and assess the hazards that pose a threat to life and property 3. Evaluate additional mitigation measures that should be undertaken 4. Outline procedures for monitoring the implementation of mitigation strategies

f. What has been updated in this section ‐ This plan provides guidance for local mitigation activities over the next five‐year planning cycle. It encourages activities that are most effective and appropriate for mitigating the effects of all natural hazards. The first section of the plan gives a basic overview of the need and purpose of a Hazard Mitigation Plan.

2. County Profile

a. Geographic setting and history – Marengo County is located in rural western Alabama.

According to the 2010 U.S. Census, the County’s population was 21,027. The County contains

approximately 983 square miles and is bordered on the north by Sumter County, Greene and

Hale Counties, on the east by Perry, Dallas, and Wilcox Counties, on the south by Clarke

County, and on the west by Choctaw County. Marengo County was created by the Alabama

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Territorial legislature on February 6, 1818, from land acquired from the Choctaw Indians by

the Treaty of Fort St. Stephens on October 24, 1816. The county also contains, in decreasing

order of population, the City of Demopolis (2010 U.S. Census population 7,483), Towns of

Linden (2010 U.S. Census population 2,125, Thomaston (2010 U.S. Census population 417,

Town of Sweet Water (2010 U.S. Census population 258), Town of Providence (U.S. Census

population 223), Town of Myrtlewood (U.S. Census population 130), Town of Faunsdale (U.S.

Census population 98), and Town of Dayton (2010 U.S. Census population 52).

Map 1. Location Map of Marengo County, Alabama

b. Government ‐ County government is in the form of a representative five‐member commission

presided over by the elected Chairman. All of the municipalities have a mayor/city council

form of government.

c. Demographics ‐ The total population of Marengo County, Alabama is 21,027 according to the

2010 Census. This amount decreased slightly from the 2000 Census. Chart 1 depicts the total

population of the Marengo County in using data from 2000 and 2010 United States Census.

Chart 1 also includes the population of unincorporated areas in Marengo County.

Chart 1. Population of Marengo County and Unincorporated Areas in 2000 and 2010. Source:

U.S. Census Data www.census.gov

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There are 8 municipalities located in Marengo County. Chart 2 depicts the 2000 and 2010

Census data for the population of each of the municipalities.

Chart 2. Population Marengo County Incorporated Areas in 2000 and 2010. Source: U.S.

Census Data www.census.gov

Chart 3 depicts the racial characteristics of Marengo County. The population is made of 46%

White population, 51% African American, and the other 43% is made of other races including

Asian, American Indian, Alaska Native, Native Hawaiian, Pacific Islander or other.

11178

10795

11361

10232

9600

9800

10000

10200

10400

10600

10800

11000

11200

11400

11600

2000 Census 2010 Census

Corporated Population

UnincoporatedPopulation

60

7540

87

2424

139

311 234383

52

7483

98

2123

130 223 258417

0

1000

2000

3000

4000

5000

6000

7000

8000

2000

2010

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Chart 3. 2010 Marengo County Race Data. Source: U.S. Census Data www.census.gov

The population of the county is concentrated into six principal Census Tracts. The densest

population of Marengo County in the northern area surrounding Demopolis and Linden. The

area of Marengo County with the lowest density is located the eastern and southern sections.

9751

10872

34 5313 140

Marengo County's Racial Population

White

Black

American Indian orAlaska Native

Asian

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Map 2. 2010 Population by Census Tract in Marengo County, Alabama

d. Economy – According to the 2010 U.S. Census, 49% of Marengo County’s population lives in

unincorporated areas. This has remained relatively unchanged since the 2000 Census. The

percentage of the population that has finished high school (83.7%) or better is higher than

both the state average (82.1%). Marengo County also has below average median and per

capita incomes. The median annual income in Marengo County is $35,079, lower than the

state median income ($40,474). A significantly higher percentage of individuals and families

live below the poverty line (24.0%) when compared to the state average (14.7%). Table 1

summarizes economic data of Marengo County using data from the U.S. Census.

Population 21,027

Male 9,913

Female 11,114

Median Age 41.8

Total Households 8,464

Total Housing Units 10,215

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Population 3 years and over enrolled in school

3,302

Percent High school graduate or better

39.3%

Percent Bachelors’ degree or higher

6.3%

Median Annual Household Income

$35,079.00

Per capita income $18,201

Families below the poverty level 19.5%

Individual below the poverty level

24%

Table 1. Summary of economic data for Marengo County. Source: U.S. Census

The economy in Marengo County has been hard hit by the recession in the late 2000’s. The

largest employer is Rock Tenn located west of Demopolis and Georgia Pacific Located in

adjacent Choctaw County.

e. Climate ‐ Marengo County has long, hot summers because moist tropical air from the Gulf of

Mexico persistently covers the area. Winters are cool and fairly short. Cold waves are rare and

generally moderate in 1 or 2 days. Precipitation is fairly heavy throughout the year, and

prolonged droughts are rare. Severe local storms, including tornadoes, strike occasionally in or

near the area. They are of short

duration and cause variable and spotty damage. Every few years, in summer or autumn, a

tropical depression or a remnant of a hurricane that has moved inland causes extremely heavy

rains for 1 to 3 days. In winter, the average temperature is 47 degrees F and the average daily

minimum temperature is 35 degrees. The lowest temperature on record, which occurred on

January 22, 1985, is ‐1 degree. In summer, the average temperature is 79 degrees and the

average daily maximum temperature is 90 degrees. The highest recorded temperature, which

occurred on June 26, 1930, is 108 degrees.

The total annual precipitation is about 55.5 inches. Of this, 28.7 inches, or 52 percent, usually

falls in April through October. The growing season for most crops falls within this period. In 2

years out of 10, the rainfall in April through October is less than 15 inches. The heaviest 1‐day

rainfall during the period of record was 9.2 inches on December 10, 1961. Thunderstorms

occur on about 59 days each year, and most occur in July. The average seasonal snowfall is

about 0.4 inch. The greatest snow depth at any one time during the period of record was 4

inches. On the average, no days of the year have at least 1 inch of snow on the ground. The

number of such days varies greatly from year to year. The average relative humidity in

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midafternoon is about 55 percent. Humidity is higher at night, and the average at dawn is

about 89 percent. The sun shines 67 percent of the time possible in summer and 50 percent in

winter. The prevailing wind is from the south. Average windspeed is highest, 7.8 miles per

hour, in March.

f. Physical features ‐ Marengo County lies within the Coastal Plain province and includes parts of

five distinct physiographic regions—the Blackland Prairie, the Chunnennuggee Hills, the

Flatwoods, the Southern Red Hills, and the river terraces and flood plains (13). The Blackland

Prairie makes up about 120,000 acres of the northern part of the county. It is used mostly for

pasture, hay, and cultivated crops and for the production of catfish. The landscape is mostly

nearly level to moderately sloping, and it has little relief. Elevation ranges from 120 to 210

feet. The soils range from shallow to very deep, and they developed in materials weathered

from soft limestone (chalk) and clayey sediments. The soils are dominantly clayey. They range

from very strongly acid to moderately alkaline and from well drained to poorly drained. The

Chunnennuggee Hills occupy about 55,000 acres between the Blackland Prairie and the

Flatwoods regions of Marengo County. Most areas are used for woodland. The landscape is

highly dissected, hilly topography that has a maximum relief of about 100 feet. Elevation

ranges from about 180 to 330 feet. The soils are deep to very deep, and they developed in

unconsolidated loamy, sandy, and clayey sediments. They range in texture from sandy to

clayey and are acid in reaction. Most of the soils in the uplands are well drained or moderately

well drained. The Flatwoods occupies about 82,000 acres of Marengo County. It forms a

narrow belt extending across the central part of the county in an east‐west direction from

Myrtlewood to the Wilcox County line. Most areas are used for woodland. A small acreage is

used for pasture, hay, and cultivated crops. The landscape is mostly nearly level to moderately

sloping, and it has little relief. The elevation ranges from 140 to 220 feet. The soils are deep,

and they developed in unconsolidated clayey sediments and shale. They are clayey and are

acid in reaction. Most of the soils are somewhat poorly drained or poorly drained. The

Southern Red Hills occupies about 180,000 acres in the southern part of the county. Most

areas are wooded. A small acreage is used for pasture and hay. The landscape ranges from

broad, nearly level poorly drained. The soils on flood plains and low terraces are subject to

flooding.

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Map 3. Marengo County Digital Elevation Model

Agriculture and forest products have sustained the economy of the county over recorded

history. Textile manufacturing and a few other small industries have also been in the county.

Where cotton was once king, the main agricultural enterprises are now beef cattle and hog

production. Significant growth has also occurred in the pond‐raised catfish and bait‐fish

industry. Timber is produced on about 87 percent of the land area in the county. It provides

raw material for local sawmills and for pulp and paper producers. Woodland also provides

habitat for wild game, such as wild turkey, white‐tailed deer, and feral hogs. This game

attracts hunters from across the Nation. Loblolly pine has largely replaced longleaf pine and

shortleaf pine, which were harvested by the early settlers.

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Map 4. National Land Cover Database for Marengo County. 2005.

g. Transportation ‐ Over the past 150 years, the major mode of transportation in Marengo

County shifted from horse and wagon through steamboat and railroad to automobile. Each

shift brought readjustment to the settlement patterns and economy of the county. Today,

the major highways serving the county are U.S. 80; which dissects the northern portion of the

County from west to east, US 43 which dissects the County from north to south, Alabama

Highway 10, Alabama Highway 28, and Alabama Highway 66, which passes from Thomaston

to Linden. Numerous hard‐surface county roads provide access throughout the county.

Marengo County is presently served by several railroads which provide freight services

between all the Counties industries. A municipal airport near Demopolis serves small, private

and commercial aircraft. The Tombigbee River has been a major avenue of transportation

throughout the history of the county. It is navigable throughout its length in Marengo County

and connects the Tennessee River system to ports on the Gulf of Mexico and other inland

water systems. Port facilities are available nearby at Demopolis.

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Map 5. Major Transportation in Marengo County, Alabama. Source: U.S. Tiger Data 2010.

h. Utilities ‐ Electric power is provided by the Alabama Power Company and Black Warrior Power

Company. Water service is provided by the City of Demopolis, the South Marengo County

Water Authority, Town of Thomaston, City of Linden, Tow of Myrtlewood Water System, and

the Town of Faunsdale. There are centralized sanitary sewer service offered in the City of

Demopolis and the City of Linden.

i. What has been updated in this section – Updated data was used to update the County profile.

These data sets include 2010 Census, current land use maps, and recent economic data

provide by Marengo County Chamber of Commerce.

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3. Planning Process

CFR Title 44 201.6 (c) (1) requires the Local Hazard Mitigation Plan must include: “Documentation of

the planning process used to develop the plan including how it was prepared, who was involved in the

process, and how the public was involved”. In order to facilitate this process, the Marengo County

Commission hired a consultant to facilitate the plan update process. From April 2014 through March

2015, the Marengo County Hazard Mitigation Committee held two meetings. Agendas and sign in

sheets from those meetings are on file in the Marengo County EMA office. Committee members

unable to attend a meeting received agendas and Committee assignments via fax, email, telephone or

personal meetings with the planning team.

a. Hazard Mitigation Planning Committee – In April 2014, under the leadership of the Marengo

County Emergency Management Director (Kevin McKinney), the Hazard Mitigation Planning

Committee was re‐assembled. Since the original plan was developed in 2010, many of the

elected officials have such left office or changed jobs. As such, it was determined to sponsor a

Kick‐Off meeting which would invite elected officials, EMA officials, and volunteer fire fighters,

police officers, elected officials, school representatives, industry representative, interested

citizens, and others. This meeting was held on April 8, 2014 and invited representatives from

numerous public and private agencies throughout Marengo County. Table 2 lists the agencies

invited to the Marengo County Hazard Mitigation Kickoff Meeting. Titles of each agency were

identified. A database of potential stakeholders was developed and an invitation postcard was

mailed to each person.

Name of Organization Invited to Hazard Mitigation Kickoff Meeting on April 8, 2014

1 Alabama Cooperative Extension Service, Director

2 Alabama Department of Environmental Management, State Director

3 Alabama Emergency Management Agency, Division C Coordinator

4 Alabama Forestry Commission, County Director

5 Alabama National Guard, Recruiting Sergeant

6 Alabama Power Corporation, County Manager

7 Alabama‐Tombigbee Regional Planning Commission, Director

8 American Red Cross, Local Government Liason

9 Choctaw County Commission, EMA Director

10 City of Linden, Public Works Director

11 Sumter County Commission, EMA Director

12 Clarke County Commission, EMA Director

13 Mississippi Emergency Management Agency, Director

14 Town of Providence, Mayor

15 Federal Emergency Management Agency, all contacts from database

16 Town of Dayton, Mayor

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17 Marengo County Chamber of Commerce, Director

18 Marengo County Board of Education, Superintendent

19 Choctaw County Commission, County EMA Director

20 Town of Faunsdale, Mayor and Town Clerk

21 Wilcox County Emergency Management Agency, EMA Director

22 Marengo County Health Department, County Director

23 Town of Myrtlewood, Mayor

24 Town of Sweet Water, Mayor

25 Marengo County Sherriff’s Office, Sherriff

26 Marengo County Volunteer Fire Departments, Chiefs

27 The Demopolis Times, Editor

28 Black Warrior Power Company, County Supervisor

29 The Marengo County Democrat Reporter, Editor

30 Marengo County Water Authority, Manger

31 Demopolis Water and Sewer Authority, Manager

32 US Army Corps of Engineers, Dam Wildlife Area Manager

33 US Fish and Wildlife Service, Field Supervisor

34 Bryan Whitfield Hospital, CEO

35 Marengo County Fire and Rescue, Deputy Chief

Table 2 – list of entities invited to attend HMGP Meeting

There were over 30 attendees to at the Kickoff meeting representing numerous of the entities

invited above. The Hazard Mitigation Planning Committee (HMPC) was formed. The

committee's adopted mission statement is:

‘To oversee and establish comprehensive hazard mitigation planning process that:

1. Engages public participation and support;

2. Facilitates Federal, state, regional and local coordinator

3. Constantly monitors and evaluates the potential risks of hazards to life and property;

4. Actively mobilizes all available community resources and measures to mitigate the

threats of hazards; and

5. Results in programmed actions with specific results.’

At this meeting, the topics included an introduction to mitigation planning, a review of the

2010 plan, and preview of the plan update process. Each member was given a summary of the

2010 plan and asked to write down any changes to their jurisdiction’s capabilities since 2010.

Also, an inventory of critical infrastructure was conducted at this meeting along with

identifying participants and agencies that weren’t represented at the meeting. These specific

participants were contacted and were asked to participate in the HMPC at the next meeting.

Representatives from each of the participating jurisdictions were invited and/or represented

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at each of the meetings. The jurisdiction that were represented at the meeting include the

Sweetwater Volunteer Fire Department (representing both the Town of Sweetwater and

Volunteer Fire Department), Brian Whitfield hospital in Demopolis, the Old Spring Hill

Volunteer Fire Department, the Marengo County Sherriff’s Department, the Marengo County

Department of Public Health, City of Demopolis, City of Demopolis Police Department, City of

Demopolis Fire Department, City of Linden, Alabama Forestry Commission, Town of

Myrtlewood, Town of Thomaston, Marengo County Commission and Town of Faunsdale.

The Town of Dayton and Town of Providence did not participate. These towns are have a very

small population and do not have active mayors or councils. The Marengo County EMA

director maintains a good relationship with the community will contact them in regarding any

emergency services.

The attendees were handed out a stakeholder survey that contained the following three

questions:

1. Who should be involved in this process and is not at the kickoff meeting? The Update to

the Marengo County Hazard Mitigation Plan should include all aspects‐ i.e. public

agencies, private businesses, and non‐profit organizations. Please include contact

information if available.

2. What in your opinion are the vulnerable areas of Marengo County to a hazard? In other

words, what should be protected?

a. Building Stock

b. Critical Facilities

c. Transportation Systems

d. Lifeline Utility Systems

e. Communication Systems

f. High Potential Loss Facility

g. Hazardous Material Facility

h. Economic Elements

i. Historical, Environmental, and Cultural Resource Areas

3. In light of the tornadoes in April, what types of actions are necessary to improve

Marengo County’s response to hazard events?

a. Prevention

b. Property Protection

c. Public Education and Awareness

d. Natural Resource Protection

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e. Structural Projects – Safe Rooms, Drainage Projects, Culverts, etc...

These responses were tabulated on a spreadsheet. A second meeting was held on

April 2, 2015. At this meeting, the committee addressed the findings of the previous exercises

and the planning team described in detail the different hazards and how their risks vary

throughout Marengo County and its communities. Man‐made hazards were introduced during

this meeting and the committee was given a man‐made hazard risk assessment exercise to fill

out and return to EMA. The Risk Assessment questions are included below.

1. How concerned are you with the following disasters that will affect Marengo County?

Hurricane/Tropical Storm 1 2 3 4 5

Flood 1 2 3 4 5

Severe Weather 1 2 3 4 5

Tornadoes 1 2 3 4 5

Wildfires 1 2 3 4 5

Drought/Heat Waves 1 2 3 4 5

Winter Storm/Freeze 1 2 3 4 5

Levee Dam Failures 1 2 3 4 5

Landslides 1 2 3 4 5

Manmade Hazards 1 2 3 4 5

Other: _________ 1 2 3 4 5

2. In the past 10 years, have you or your family experienced a natural disasters such as a

hurricane/tropical storm, flood, tornadoes, wildfires, drought/heat wave, winter storm

freezes, levee dam failure, landslide, or other?

□ Yes □ No (If no skip to question 4.)

3. If yes, which disasters have your or your family experienced?

□ Hurricane/Tropical Storm □Flood

□ Severe Weather □Tornadoes

□ Wildfires □ Drought/Heat Waves

□ Winter Storm/Freezes □ Levee/ Dam Failures

□ Landslides □ Manmade Hazards

□ Other: ________

4. Please prioritize the likelihood of the following disasters impacting you in the next 5 years

(1 – most likely – 10 – almost never)

~ 16 ~

a. Hurricane/Tropical Storm ________

b. Flood ________

c. Severe Weather ________

d. Tornadoes ________

e. Wildfires ________

f. Drought/Heat Waves ________

g. Winter Storm/Freezes ________

h. Levee Dam Failures ________

i. Landslides ________

j. Manmade Hazards ________

k. Other: _________ ________

The results from this exercise were tallied and used in the risk assessment.

The final public meeting was held on April 2, 2015 and presented the results from the risk

assessment along with mitigation strategies for each participating jurisdiction. All

representatives who attended the meetings were participants on committee. The consultant

developed the meeting agendas following guidance provided by the Local Mitigation Plan

Review Guide date October 1, 2011. The consultant developed the draft plan and it was

reviewed the EMA Director (Kevin McKinney) along with other planning consultants. All

meeting attendees were involved in the plan development process. Please find a detailed

description below of the jurisdictions that are new, continuing, or no longer participating in

the Hazard Mitigation planning process. Each chapter of the plan was reviewed and updated

by the Marengo County Multi‐Hazard Mitigation committee.

New Participating Jurisdictions

None.

Continuing Jurisdictions

1. Marengo County Commission

2. City of Demopolis

3. Town of Faunsdale

4. City of Linden

5. Town of Myrtlewood

6. Town of Sweet Water

7. Town of Thomaston

Jurisdictions that are no longer participating

1. Town of Dayton

~ 17 ~

2. Town of Providence

Please note the EMA Director will maintain contact with these entities as the

process moves forward.

Entities Notified of the Update, but Chose Not to Participate

Name of Organization Invited to Hazard Mitigation Kickoff Meeting on April 8, 2014

1 Alabama Cooperative Extension Service

2 Alabama Department of Environmental Management

3 Alabama National Guard

4 Alabama Power Corporation

5 Alabama Southern Community College

6 Alabama‐Tombigbee Regional Planning Commission

7 American Red Cross

8 Sumter County Commission

9 Clarke County Commission

10 Mississippi Emergency Management Agency

11 Federal Emergency Management Agency

12 Choctaw County Commission

13 Marengo County Health Department

14 The Demopolis Times

15 Black Warrior Power Company

16 The Marengo County Democrat Reporter

17 Marengo County Water Authority

18 US Army Corps of Engineers, Mobile District

19 US Fish and Wildlife Service

20 Town of Dayton

21 Town of Providence

b. Public Involvement ‐ The public was involved in every step of Marengo County’s Hazard

Mitigation Planning process. The HMPC solicited public input into the mitigation plan through

public meetings the local news media, and social media. For each meeting, notices were

posted in courthouse and City Halls throughout Marengo County. An ad was published in the

Democrat Reporter on March 19 and 26 2015 advertising the Public meeting held on April 2,

2015. The public was invited to the meeting and did not attend.

~ 18 ~

Figure 1. Advertisements published in Democrat Reporter in March 2015.

~ 19 ~

Figure 1. Advertisements published in Democrat Reporter in March 2015.

~ 20 ~

Last, prior to adopting the plan, each jurisdiction will hold a public hearing at each of their

Commission and Council meeting. These meetings will be held after Marengo County receives

its approval letter from FEMA.

c. Interagency and intergovernmental coordination – As stated in the part a above, numerous

federal, state, regional and local agencies were invited to the kickoff meeting. Participation

was encouraged through mailings, e‐mail and follow‐up phone calls. In sum, there were over

25 agencies represented through the planning process either directly or indirectly.

d. Participating jurisdictions ‐ All jurisdictions within Marengo County have participated in the

planning process by direct representation on the planning committee or through informal

review. Each entity has committed to adopting the final plan by formal resolution. These

jurisdictions include the municipalities of Demopolis, Linden, Myrtlewood, Sweet Water, and

Thomaston. Dayton and Providence did not participate. (see attached table).

e. Integration with existing plans ‐ This document will be incorporated into the Marengo County

Emergency Operations Plan administered through the Emergency Management Agency office.

Numerous other plans were identified throughout the planning process however, no plans

have regulatory jurisdiction over any area countywide throughout Marengo County. For

example, there are no building codes enforced in Marengo County nor any comprehensive or

zoning plans. However, there are many plans that indirectly coordinate with the Marengo

County Hazard Mitigation Plan. These plans were checked to make sure any of the proposed

policies in the Marengo County Hazard Mitigation Plan does not conflict with these existing

plans. These plans include:

Marengo County Emergency Operations Plan

U.S. 2010 Census Alabama State Data Center Population Projections 2000‐2025

NOAA and NWS records: past occurrence data

Flood Insurance Rate Maps

Forest Statistics for Alabama

State of Alabama State Hazard Mitigation Plan

Geological Hazards Information for the Geological Survey of Alabama

Marengo County Soil Survey

f. What has been updated in this section ‐ This section contains a variety of organizational and

basic information that deals with the update process. This information had to be revised in

order to document the update process. The Marengo County Commission reviewed this

section and made all revisions. The revised areas include an Outlined Natural Hazards Steering

Committee’s involvement in update process, Outlined public involvement process in plan

update, Updated Interagency and Intergovernmental Coordination Section, Updated

participated jurisdictions, and updated reports and information sources that were consulted.

~ 21 ~

Jurisdiction Representative Title Agency Town of Sweetwater Wilson R. Davis Mayor Town of

Sweetwater

City of Demopolis Mike Grayson Mayor City of Demopolis

Town of Faundsale George Kelley Mayor Town of Faundsale

Town of Linden Charles B. Moore, Jr. Mayor Town of Linden

Town of Myrtlewood Jane Vick Mayor Town of Myrtlewood

Town of Thomaston Jeff Laduron Mayor Town of Thomaston

Unincorporated Marengo County

Kevin McKinney EMA/E911 Director Marengo County Commission

~ 22 ~

4. Risk Assessment

a. Risk Assessment Process ‐ This risk assessment identifies all natural hazards affecting Marengo

County. It provides information on the history and extent of hazards, evaluates the possible

effects, identifies vulnerable populations and assets (buildings, critical facilities, and essential

infrastructure), and estimates potential losses that might occur. The risk assessment process

identifies the most critical problems and issues that require mitigation actions.

b. Identification of Risks ‐ In the initial phase of the planning process, the HMPC identified

potential natural hazards that could impact Marengo County. The HMPC decided to use the

most of the same hazards included in the 2010 approved Hazard Mitigation Plan. There were

a few hazards omitted from the 2010 plan by the HMPC as they do not pose a realistic threat

to Marengo County. The omitted hazards include: Avalanche (no large snow events in

Marengo County), Coastal Erosion (Marengo County is not located on the coast), Expansive

Soils (although exists, there is no past history of damage in Marengo County), Land

Subsidence (usually occurs in areas with carbonate substrate which isn’t located in Marengo

County), Tsunamis (not near ocean), and Volcanoes (no active geological activity). Each of

these risks were evaluated by the HMPC and ranked based on previous experience with the

hazard and probability or risk of impact by the event. This assessment resulted in the

hurricanes/tropical storms and tornadoes to be the largest perceived likelihood of threat in

the next 5 years. Table 3 below includes a list of each of the hazards assessed, and the

percentage of HMPC members experience with the hazard and the perceived risk of the

hazard in the future.

Type of Hazard Impacting Marengo County

HMPC Experience

HMPC perceived risk

1 Hurricanes/Tropical Storms

85% 85%

2 Flood

80% 80%

3 Severe Storms 50% 71%

4 Tornadoes 25% 60%

5 Wildfire 10% 50%

6 Drought Heat Waves 10% 48%

7 Winter storms/Freezes 10% 39%

8 Levee/Dam Failures 0% 5%

9 Landslides 0% 0%

10 Earthquakes 0% 0%

11 Manmade Hazards (e.g. Oil Spills) 10% 80%

~ 23 ~

Table 3. Assessment of Perceived Risk of from Hazards

c. Federally‐declared disasters ‐ Marengo County has been included in a total of 11 federal

disaster declarations from 1973 to date. Table 4 summarized the federal disaster declarations

that have taken place in Marengo County since the 1970’s.

Disaster Number

Type Date of Declaration

1 369 Tornado 4/5/1973

2 458 Flood 3/14/1975

3 3045 Drought 8/16/1977

4 3074 Flood 3/17/1979

5 578 Flood 4/18/1979

6 598 Hurricane Frederik 9/13/1979

7 861 Severe Storms 4/7/1990

8 1466 Severe Storms, Tornadoes and Flooding

5/12/2003

9 3096 Snow Storm 3/15/1993

10 1185 Severe Storm 7/25/1997

11 1250 Hurricane Georges 10/13/1998

12 1549 Hurricane Ivan 9/15/2004

13 193 Hurricane Dennis 7/10/2005

13 1605 Hurricane Katrina 8/25/2005

14 1971 Tornadoes 4/15/2011 and 4/29/2011

Table 4. Summary of Federal Disasters in Marengo County, Alabama

d. Hurricane/Tropical Storm

Hazard Description ‐ A "tropical cyclone" is a generic term for a cyclonic, low‐pressure system

over tropical or sub‐tropical waters. Tropical cyclones with maximum sustained winds of less

than 39 mph are called tropical depressions. A tropical storm is a cyclone with maximum

sustained winds greater than 39 mph but less than 74 mph, and a tropical storm with winds

that have reached a constant speed of 74 miles per hour or more is a hurricane. Coastal

Alabama borders a part of the northern Gulf of Mexico that has a high incidence of hurricanes

causing wind and water damage in Marengo County.

Though the center of Marengo County is located approximately 150 miles from the Gulf of

Mexico, hurricanes and tropical storms sometimes bring high winds and heavy rains to the

area as they move north. Table 5 lists the major hurricanes/tropical storms that have

~ 24 ~

impacted Marengo County and Southwest Alabama over the 20 years. Damage estimates are

for the entire region can be high per capital.

Hurricane Dennis made landfall on July 10, 2005 at the Santa Rosa Sound in Florida,

approximately 25 miles from the Florida‐Alabama state line, at this time, Alabama had already

received significant rainfall from Tropical Storm Arlene and Hurricane Cindy. Because coastal

Alabama was on the western side of the eye of Dennis, it was spared the worst of the storm

surge; however, as much as 10 inches of rain fell in some areas causing flash flooding in inland

Alabama counties, including Marengo County.

Hurricane Katrina made landfall along the Louisiana‐Mississippi border on August 29, 2005,

approximately 80 miles east of the Mississippi‐Alabama border. Because Alabama was on the

eastern side of the system, it experienced a significant storm surge (higher than in Ivan just

the year before). Storm surge throughout coastal Mobile and Baldwin Counties ranged from 9‐

14 feet. AS Katrina moved inland, it dropped huge amounts of rain throughout causing

significant flash flooding in Alabama counties, including Marengo County.

Location Date Type Mag Dth

Inj PrD CrD

Marengo County

07/21/1997 Hurricane Danny

N/A 0 0 25.0M 1.0M

Marengo County

09/25/1998 Hurricane Georges

N/A 1 0 174.2M

5.0M

Marengo County

09/13/2004 Hurricanetyphoon Ivan

N/A 0 0 2.5B 25.0M

Marengo County

07/09/2005 Hurricanetyphoon Dennis

N/A 0 0 120.0M

100K

Marengo County

8/27/2005 Hurricanetyphoon Dennis

N/A 0 0 0 0

Table 5: Major hurricanes/tropical storms that have impacted Marengo County and Southwest Alabama over the 20 years. Souce: NCDB database. Community Impacts ‐ Risks associated with coastal storms include storm tide, inland flooding,

water force, wind velocity and coastal erosion. A tropical storm can also produce numerous

thunderstorms and tornadoes. Marengo County is susceptible to the effects of coastal storms.

Since Marengo County is inland, the primary risk is the impact of high winds, the formation of

tornadoes and flooding. Ten percent of deaths in the United States associated with hurricanes

are due to the tornadoes.

~ 25 ~

Impact means the consequence or effects of the hazard on people, structures, facilities,

systems, capabilities, or activities. The impact of a tropical storm/hurricane can be damage to

structures, facilities, utility lines from falling debris, lack of power for extended period of time,

no access to remote areas due to downed trees and blocked roads, and emergencies services

can be suspended, damage to infrastructure from wind (i.e. roof damage), and road damage

due to localized flooding from heavy rain events. This damage can happen in each jurisdiction

located within Marengo County.

Location and Extent ‐ All areas in Marengco County vulnerable to impacts from Hurricanes

and Tropical Storms. Extent is the strength or magnitude of the hazard. Extent of a hurricane

can be described using the Saffir‐Simpson Scale.

Category One (Sustained winds 74‐95 mph, 64‐82 kt, or 119‐153 km/hr). Very

dangerous winds will produce some damage

Category Two (Sustained winds 96‐110 mph, 83‐95 kt, or 154‐177 km/hr). Extremely

dangerous winds will cause extensive damage

Category Three (Sustained winds 111‐130 mph, 96‐113 kt, or 178‐209

km/hr).Devastating damage will occur

Category Four (Sustained winds 131‐155 mph, 114‐135 kt, or 210‐249 km/hr).

Catastrophic damage will occur

Category Five (Sustained winds greater than 155 mph, greater than 135 kt, or greater

than 249 km/hr).Catastrophic damage will occur.

The extent for this hazard is a Category 5 hurricane leading to catastrophic damage, sustained

winds, greater than 155mph, heavy flood and wind damage, loss of life, injuries, temporary

loss of utilities, and timber loss.

Probability of Future Occurrences ‐ Marengo County is highly susceptible to hurricanes and

tropical storms. Based on historical data, Marengo County can expect a hurricane once every

two years, or 50% of the time. Another analysis was conducted by the Atlantic Oceanographic

and Meteorological Laboratory. The organization analyzed hurricane activity from 1944‐1999.

This study resulted in a map showing probabilities of a strike that will affect the during the

hurricane season. Figure 2 depicts the results of this analysis.

~ 26 ~

Figure 2. Empirical Probability of a Named Storm – note Marengo County is noted as having a

36% chance of being hit by a Named Storm. http://www.aoml.noaa.gov/hrd/tcfaq/G12.html

e. Flood

Hazard description ‐ Flooding is the accumulation of water within a water body (e.g., stream,

river, lake, or reservoir) and the overflow of excess water onto adjacent floodplains.

Floodplains are usually lowlands adjacent to water bodies that are subject to recurring floods.

Marengo County is a slight risk to moderate risk of flooding. Flooding in large rivers usually

results from large‐scale weather systems that generate prolonged rainfall over wide areas.

Small rivers and streams are susceptible to flooding from more localized weather systems that

cause intense rainfall over small areas.

"Flash flood" is a term widely used by flood experts and the general population. However,

there is no single definition and method to distinguish flash flooding from riverine and other

floods. For the purpose of this plan, we will define flash flooding as flooding that occurs due

to localized drainage and is outside the boundaries of the FIRM floodplain.

~ 27 ~

Local drainage floods may occur outside of recognized drainage channels or delineated

floodplains for a variety of reasons, including concentrated local precipitation, a lack of

infiltration, inadequate facilities for drainage and storm water conveyance, and/or increased

surface runoff. Such events often occur in flat areas, particularly during winter and spring in

areas with frozen ground, and also in urbanized areas with large impermeable surfaces. High

groundwater flooding is a seasonal occurrence in some areas, but may occur in other areas

after prolonged periods of above‐average precipitation.

Hazard History ‐ Since 1996, there have been several major flooding events in Marengo

County according to the National Climate Data Center. Table 6 lists each of these events. The

NCDC Storm Events Database provides the following details on a flood event in 1996: ‘Rainfall

of up to eight inches caused many roads in the northwest part of the county to be closed. The

storm that caused the heavy rains remained almost stationary over Marengo County for

most of the morning then slowly moved southeast during the afternoon. Most of the roads

that had to be closed were dirt roads. The roads remained closed into the early evening hours,

associated with a hurricanes or tropical storms. Table 6 includes a list of the 13 recent

flooding events in Marengo County (Source: NCDC database).

~ 28 ~

Location County/Zone Date Time T.Z. Type Mag Dth Inj PrD CrD

Totals: 0 0 179.00K 5.00K

COUNTYWIDE

MARENGO CO. 01/07/1998 09:30 CST

Flash Flood 0 0 30.00K 5.00K

COUNTYWIDE

MARENGO CO. 03/03/2001 02:30 CST


COUNTYWIDE

MARENGO CO. 04/07/2003 07:00 CST


MARENGO (ZONE)

MARENGO (ZONE) 05/10/2003 10:00 CST Flood 0 0 0.00K 0.00K

MARENGO (ZONE)


MARENGO (ZONE)


MARENGO (ZONE)


DEMOPOLIS

MARENGO CO. 06/08/2005 21:30 CST


MARENGO (ZONE)


COUNTYWIDE

MARENGO CO. 07/10/2005 19:30 CST


MARENGO (ZONE)


FAUNSDALE

MARENGO CO. 03/09/2011 05:30

CST-6


DAYTON

MARENGO CO. 07/11/2013 05:45

CST-6


Table 6: Flooding events in Marengo County, Alabama. Sourch: www.ncdc.gov

Community Impact ‐ Flooding caused by rainfall occurs to some extent almost every year in

almost every part of Marengo County. Flooding occurs most frequently between November

and April, with a peak from February through April. Alabama received more annual rainfall

than any other state, creating a high potential for riverine and flash flooding in Marengo

County. The measurement used to determine the limits of the floodplain was developed with

~ 29 ~

the enactment of the National Flood Insurance Act of 1968 (NFIP). Under the NFIP it was

determined that the base standard was the 100‐year or "base flood". This means that the

limits of the flood plain arc set by the limits of a rain event that has a 1% annual chance of

occurrence. There are established techniques for determining the base flood limits. These

techniques have been used to develop Flood Insurance Rate Maps or FIRMs. FIRMs illustrate

elevation of the base flood and the 500‐year event (0.2% annual chance of occurrence) in

areas where a model has been developed.

The risks associated with flash flooding are the same as riverine flooding. One clear

distinction is the element of surprise. Flash flooding, as the name implies, occurs quickly and

without much warning. In riverine flooding, the time and height of the crest can be accurately

predicted, and warnings can be issued several hours in advance. The National Flood Insurance

Program’s Flood Insurance Rate Maps (FIRMs) for the county were consulted to determine if

there was a flood risk. The risks associated with flash flooding are the same as riverine

flooding. There are no repetitive loss properties in Marengo County.


systems, capabilities, or activities. The impact of flooding can be damage to houses and

buildings from rising water, lack of access to remote areas due to downed trees and blocked

roads, and emergencies services can be suspended. This damage can happen in each

jurisdiction located within Marengo County.

Location and Extent ‐ Most flooding occurs within the Tombigbee River floodplain, which runs

along the western boundary of the County. Further, the Town of Providence is largely within a

FEMA‐designated flood zone. Faunsdale, Myrtlewood, Dayton, Sweetwater, Linden and

Thomaston have little or no flood areas. Approximately 15% of the City of Demopolis is

located in flood‐prone areas and the Town of Providence is almost entirely located within a

flood zone. There are very little populated areas located within a flood zone in unincorporated

Marengo County.

Marengo County has experienced some flood damages, however due to the rural nature of

County, flooding is not a major problem. Most flooding is of flash type, along streams and

tributaries. Flooding and heavy rain both have also been known to cause major road damage.

Floodwaters that cover the surface of the road often result in the base of the road washing

away and surface asphalt cracking or failing. Failure of the roads can lead to utility damages.

As shown by the flood in 1998, Marengo County is susceptible to major damage from flooding.

Floods are capable of undermining buildings and bridges, eroding shorelines and riverbanks,

tearing out trees, washing out access routes, and causing loss of life and injuries. Floods occur

in all 50 states and FEMA estimates that 9 million households and $390 billion in property are

at risk from flooding. The location of flood‐prone areas are located within the 100‐year

~ 30 ~

floodplain as determined by the FEMA flood maps. The date of the most recent published

FIRM maps is September 3, 2010. Map 6 is a map of the most recent 100‐year floodplain data.

Map 6. Marengo County Special Flood Hazard Area (100‐year floodplain)

Extent – The extent of flood in Marengo County is measured by intensity and volume of

rainfall in conjunction with the height at the Demopolis Lock and Dam. The extent of a flodd is

up to 7‐8 feet of water leading to road closures, property damage, injury and loss of life.

Probability of Future Occurrences ‐ Marengo County experienced 13 flash flood and flood

events over a 16 year period. This results in a probability of a flooding event once every 1‐2

years. Based on the flood events since 1996 contained in the Storm Events Database,

Marengo County may expect about 0.6 flash or riverine floods per year. Average annual

damages are estimated at $4,300. Although we can extract data and probability of occurrence

from historical information, they do not necessarily predict future occurrences.

f. Severe Storms

~ 31 ~

Hazard Description ‐ A severe thunderstorm is a storm containing damaging winds of at least

58 miles per hour or hail that measures a minimum of three‐fourths of an inch in diameter.

All severe thunderstorms contain intense lightning and straight‐line or downburst winds that

can be extremely strong and concentrated. Falling rain and sinking air create these winds that

can reach speeds as high as 125 mph.

Hazard History – The storm events database contains listing of storms with hail, thunderstorm

wind, and lighting. Since 1950 there have been numerous reports of these types of storms.

Table 7, Table 8 and Table 9 include summaries of these events in Marengo County.

Since 1973, there have been over 62 hail events resulting in over $1.32 million damage to

crops and property.


Totals: 0 0 124.00K 4.00K

MARENGO CO.

MARENGO CO. 05/25/1973 16:20 CST Hail

1.75 in. 0 0 0.00K 0.00K

MARENGO CO.


4.00 in. 0 0 0.00K 0.00K

MARENGO CO.


1.75 in. 0 0 0.00K 0.00K

MARENGO CO.


0.75 in. 0 0 0.00K 0.00K

MARENGO CO.


0.88 in. 0 0 0.00K 0.00K

MARENGO CO.


0.75 in. 0 0 0.00K 0.00K

MARENGO CO.


0.75 in. 0 0 0.00K 0.00K

MARENGO CO.


1.75 in. 0 0 0.00K 0.00K

MARENGO CO.


0.75 in. 0 0 0.00K 0.00K

Linden


0.75 in. 0 0 0.00K 0.00K

LINDEN

MARENGO CO. 02/19/1996 15:10 CST Hail in. 0 0 0.00K 0.00K

SWEET WATER


0.75 in. 0 0 0.00K 0.00K

SWEET WATER MARENGO 05/03/1998 13:25 CST Hail 1.75 0 0 10.00K 4.00K

~ 32 ~

CO. in.

THOMASTON


0.75 in. 0 0 0.00K 0.00K

SWEET WATER


0.75 in. 0 0 0.00K 0.00K

MYRTLEWOOD


0.75 in. 0 0 0.00K 0.00K

DIXONS MILLS


1.75 in. 0 0 0.00K 0.00K

DEMOPOLIS


0.75 in. 0 0 0.00K 0.00K

MYRTLEWOOD


1.00 in. 0 0 0.00K 0.00K

MYRTLEWOOD


0.75 in. 0 0 0.00K 0.00K

SWEET WATER


1.25 in. 0 0 0.00K 0.00K

JEFFERSON


1.00 in. 0 0 0.00K 0.00K

LINDEN


0.75 in. 0 0 0.00K 0.00K

DEMOPOLIS


0.75 in. 0 0 0.00K 0.00K

FAUNSDALE


0.75 in. 0 0 0.00K 0.00K

DIXONS MILLS


1.75 in. 0 0 26.00K 0.00K

SWEET WATER


0.75 in. 0 0 0.00K 0.00K

FAUNSDALE


2.00 in. 0 0 75.00K 0.00K

SWEET WATER


1.00 in. 0 0 0.00K 0.00K

DEMOPOLIS


0.75 in. 0 0 0.00K 0.00K

DEMOPOLIS MUNI ARPT


0.88 in. 0 0 0.00K 0.00K

MYRTLEWOOD


0.75 in. 0 0 0.00K 0.00K

DIXONS MILLS MARENGO 02/22/2005 18:20 CST Hail 2.00 0 0 8.00K 0.00K

~ 33 ~

CO. in.

SWEET WATER


0.75 in. 0 0 0.00K 0.00K

THOMASTON


0.75 in. 0 0 0.00K 0.00K

SWEET WATER


0.75 in. 0 0 0.00K 0.00K

DAYTON


1.00 in. 0 0 1.00K 0.00K

FAUNSDALE


0.75 in. 0 0 1.00K 0.00K

LINDEN


0.88 in. 0 0 1.00K 0.00K

JEFFERSON


1.75 in. 0 0 2.00K 0.00K

LINDEN


1.00 in. 0 0 0.00K 0.00K

LINDEN


0.75 in. 0 0 0.00K 0.00K

LASCA

MARENGO CO. 03/01/2007 11:35

CST-6 Hail

0.88 in. 0 0 0.00K 0.00K

DEMOPOLIS

MARENGO CO. 04/11/2007 13:40

CST-6 Hail

1.00 in. 0 0 0.00K 0.00K

DEMOPOLIS

MARENGO CO. 04/11/2007 13:55

CST-6 Hail

1.75 in. 0 0 0.00K 0.00K

FAUNSDALE

MARENGO CO. 02/18/2009 16:33

CST-6 Hail

1.75 in. 0 0 0.00K 0.00K

LINDEN

MARENGO CO. 02/18/2009 17:49

CST-6 Hail

0.88 in. 0 0 0.00K 0.00K

DEMOPOLIS

MARENGO CO. 02/27/2009 18:21

CST-6 Hail

0.75 in. 0 0 0.00K 0.00K

ALLENVILLE

MARENGO CO. 02/27/2009 18:28

CST-6 Hail

2.75 in. 0 0 0.00K 0.00K

DEMOPOLIS MUNI ARPT

MARENGO CO. 05/21/2010 13:50

CST-6 Hail

0.88 in. 0 0 0.00K 0.00K

DEMOPOLIS

MARENGO CO. 05/21/2010 14:00

CST-6 Hail

1.75 in. 0 0 0.00K 0.00K

LINDEN

MARENGO CO. 05/21/2010 14:30

CST-6 Hail

1.00 in. 0 0 0.00K 0.00K

JEFFERSON MARENGO 10/24/2010 18:43 CST- Hail 1.00 0 0 0.00K 0.00K

~ 34 ~

CO. 6 in.

LINDEN

MARENGO CO. 10/24/2010 18:45

CST-6 Hail

2.75 in. 0 0 0.00K 0.00K

LINDEN

MARENGO CO. 04/11/2011 18:43

CST-6 Hail

0.75 in. 0 0 0.00K 0.00K

MYRTLEWOOD

MARENGO CO. 04/15/2011 16:00

CST-6 Hail

4.25 in. 0 0 0.00K 0.00K

MYRTLEWOOD

MARENGO CO. 04/15/2011 16:17

CST-6 Hail

2.75 in. 0 0 0.00K 0.00K

HALF ACRE

MARENGO CO. 04/15/2011 16:17

CST-6 Hail

2.50 in. 0 0 0.00K 0.00K

SWEET WATER

MARENGO CO. 06/10/2011 16:41

CST-6 Hail

1.00 in. 0 0 0.00K 0.00K

LEVY

MARENGO CO. 03/23/2013 19:38

CST-6 Hail

1.00 in. 0 0 0.00K 0.00K

MYRTLEWOOD

MARENGO CO. 04/06/2014 16:14

CST-6 Hail

0.75 in. 0 0 0.00K 0.00K

OCTAGON

MARENGO CO. 07/02/2014 16:35

CST-6 Hail

1.00 in. 0 0 0.00K 0.00K

Totals: 0 0 124.00K 4.00K

Table 7. Hail storms in Marengo County, Alabama (source: NCDC Database)

MARENGO CO.

MARENGO CO. 03/06/1967 15:30 CST

Thunderstorm Wind

0 kts. 0 0 0.00K 0.00K

MARENGO CO.

MARENGO CO. 08/01/1967 16:00 CST

Thunderstorm Wind

0 kts. 0 0 0.00K 0.00K

MARENGO CO.

MARENGO CO. 08/24/1968 13:00 CST

Thunderstorm Wind

0 kts. 0 0 0.00K 0.00K

MARENGO CO.

MARENGO CO. 06/21/1969 21:15 CST

Thunderstorm Wind

0 kts. 0 0 0.00K 0.00K

MARENGO CO.

MARENGO CO. 03/25/1971 14:30 CST

Thunderstorm Wind

0 kts. 0 0 0.00K 0.00K

MARENGO CO.

MARENGO CO. 05/08/1973 04:00 CST

Thunderstorm Wind

0 kts. 0 0 0.00K 0.00K

MARENGO CO.

MARENGO CO. 03/21/1974 01:20 CST

Thunderstorm Wind

0 kts. 0 0 0.00K 0.00K

MARENGO CO.

MARENGO CO. 02/12/1984 16:20 CST

Thunderstorm Wind

0 kts. 0 0 0.00K 0.00K

MARENGO CO. MARENGO 05/03/1984 11:07 CST Thunderstorm 0 0 0 0.00K 0.00K

~ 35 ~

CO. Wind kts.

MARENGO CO.

MARENGO CO. 04/05/1985 16:45 CST

Thunderstorm Wind

0 kts. 0 0 0.00K 0.00K

MARENGO CO.

MARENGO CO. 02/04/1986 17:55 CST

Thunderstorm Wind

0 kts. 0 0 0.00K 0.00K

MARENGO CO.

MARENGO CO. 11/04/1988 18:08 CST

Thunderstorm Wind

0 kts. 0 0 0.00K 0.00K

MARENGO CO.

MARENGO CO. 04/05/1989 17:30 CST

Thunderstorm Wind

0 kts. 0 0 0.00K 0.00K

MARENGO CO.

MARENGO CO. 02/10/1990 02:05 CST

Thunderstorm Wind

65 kts. 0 0 0.00K 0.00K

MARENGO CO.

MARENGO CO. 05/12/1990 18:00 CST

Thunderstorm Wind

0 kts. 0 0 0.00K 0.00K

MARENGO CO.

MARENGO CO. 06/22/1990 17:55 CST

Thunderstorm Wind

0 kts. 0 0 0.00K 0.00K

MARENGO CO.

MARENGO CO. 08/20/1990 18:20 CST

Thunderstorm Wind

0 kts. 0 0 0.00K 0.00K

MARENGO CO.

MARENGO CO. 03/29/1991 07:25 CST

Thunderstorm Wind

0 kts. 0 1 0.00K 0.00K

MARENGO CO.

MARENGO CO. 03/18/1992 17:00 PST

Thunderstorm Wind

0 kts. 0 0 0.00K 0.00K

MARENGO CO.

MARENGO CO. 08/27/1992 07:00 PST

Thunderstorm Wind

0 kts. 0 0 0.00K 0.00K

MARENGO CO.

MARENGO CO. 11/21/1992 16:40 PST

Thunderstorm Wind

0 kts. 0 0 0.00K 0.00K

Demopolis

MARENGO CO. 03/09/1994 13:00 CST

Thunderstorm Wind

0 kts. 0 0 50.00K 0.00K

Sweetwater

MARENGO CO. 01/06/1995 13:15 CST

Thunderstorm Wind

0 kts. 0 0 0.00K 0.00K

Jefferson

MARENGO CO. 01/06/1995 13:30 CST

Thunderstorm Wind

0 kts. 0 0 0.00K 0.00K

Providence

MARENGO CO. 03/07/1995 14:40 CST

Thunderstorm Wind

0 kts. 0 0 18.00K 0.00K

MARENGO CO.

MARENGO CO. 04/20/1995 23:45 CST

Thunderstorm Wind

0 kts. 0 0 0.00K 0.00K

Jefferson

MARENGO CO. 04/20/1995 23:45 CST

Thunderstorm Wind

0 kts. 0 0 0.00K 0.00K

Demopolis

MARENGO CO. 05/15/1995 18:10 CST

Thunderstorm Wind

0 kts. 0 0 5.00K 0.00K

MARENGO CO. MARENGO 05/15/1995 18:55 CST Thunderstorm 0 0 0 8.00K 0.00K

~ 36 ~

CO. Wind kts.

Demopolis

MARENGO CO. 05/18/1995 17:44 CST

Thunderstorm Wind

0 kts. 0 0 0.20K 0.00K

Myrtlewood

MARENGO CO. 07/09/1995 11:40 CST

Thunderstorm Wind

0 kts. 0 0 5.00K 0.00K

Sweetwater

MARENGO CO. 07/09/1995 12:00 CST

Thunderstorm Wind

0 kts. 0 0 4.00K 0.00K

LINDEN

MARENGO CO. 04/22/1996 23:45 CST

Thunderstorm Wind

50 kts. 0 0 10.00K 0.00K

THOMASTON

MARENGO CO. 02/21/1997 08:35 CST

Thunderstorm Wind

55 kts. 0 0 15.00K 0.00K

DEMOPOLIS

MARENGO CO. 04/22/1997 13:20 CST

Thunderstorm Wind

50 kts. 0 0 5.00K 0.00K

SWEET WATER

MARENGO CO. 04/22/1997 16:15 CST

Thunderstorm Wind

50 kts. 0 0 5.00K 0.00K

SWEET WATER

MARENGO CO. 01/07/1998 07:20 CST

Thunderstorm Wind

50 kts. 0 0 3.00K 0.00K

LINDEN

MARENGO CO. 06/05/1998 14:15 CST

Thunderstorm Wind

50 kts. 0 0 5.00K 0.00K

DEMOPOLIS

MARENGO CO. 06/15/1998 18:55 CST

Thunderstorm Wind

50 kts. 0 0 10.00K 0.00K

DIXONS MILLS

MARENGO CO. 04/15/1999 01:00 CST

ThunderstormWind

55 kts. 0 0 2.00K 0.00K

SWEET WATER

MARENGO CO. 06/24/1999 01:45 CST

Thunderstorm Wind

50 kts. 0 0 3.00K 0.00K

COUNTYWIDE

MARENGO CO. 07/07/1999 17:00 CST

Thunderstorm Wind

50 kts. 0 0 20.00K 0.00K

DIXONS MILLS

MARENGO CO. 03/19/2000 14:30 CST

Thunderstorm Wind

55 kts. E 0 0 5.00K 0.00K

DIXONS MILLS

MARENGO CO. 04/02/2000 15:52 CST

Thunderstorm Wind

60 kts. E 0 0 20.00K 0.00K

DEMOPOLIS

MARENGO CO. 07/20/2000 14:45 CST

Thunderstorm Wind

55 kts. E 0 0 0.00K 0.00K

DEMOPOLIS

MARENGO CO. 07/20/2000 14:55 CST

Thunderstorm Wind

60 kts. E 0 2 10.00K 0.00K

THOMASTON MARENGO 12/16/2000 13:15 CST Thunderstorm 50 0 0 8.00K 0.00K

~ 37 ~

CO. Wind kts. E

LINDEN

MARENGO CO. 01/29/2001 15:40 CST

Thunderstorm Wind

55 kts. E 0 0 3.00K 0.00K

SWEET WATER

MARENGO CO. 02/25/2001 01:15 CST

Thunderstorm Wind

75 kts. E 0 0 15.00K 0.00K

SWEET WATER

MARENGO CO. 05/27/2001 18:25 CST

Thunderstorm Wind

55 kts. E 0 0 15.00K 0.00K

SHILOH

MARENGO CO. 05/27/2001 18:40 CST

Thunderstorm Wind

50 kts. E 0 0 3.00K 0.00K

PUTNAM

MARENGO CO. 08/17/2001 19:46 CST

Thunderstorm Wind

50 kts. E 0 0 2.00K 0.00K

SWEET WATER

MARENGO CO. 08/25/2002 13:45 CST

Thunderstorm Wind

50 kts. E 0 0 3.00K 0.00K

FAUNSDALE

MARENGO CO. 02/15/2003 20:53 CST

Thunderstorm Wind

50 kts. EG 0 0 9.00K 0.00K

FAUNSDALE

MARENGO CO. 04/07/2003 02:30 CST

Thunderstorm Wind

50 kts. EG 0 0 6.00K 0.00K

DEMOPOLIS

MARENGO CO. 04/07/2003 05:00 CST

Thunderstorm Wind

50 kts. EG 0 0 2.00K 0.00K

SWEET WATER

MARENGO CO. 05/03/2003 07:05 CST

Thunderstorm Wind

50 kts. EG 0 0 5.00K 0.00K

DEMOPOLIS

MARENGO CO. 07/21/2003 17:05 CST

Thunderstorm Wind

50 kts. EG 0 0 8.00K 0.00K

JEFFERSON

MARENGO CO. 07/21/2003 17:40 CST

Thunderstorm Wind

50 kts. EG 0 0 3.00K 0.00K

DEMOPOLIS

MARENGO CO. 01/13/2005 10:20 CST

Thunderstorm Wind

50 kts. EG 0 0 8.00K 0.00K

DEMOPOLIS

MARENGO CO. 03/07/2005 18:05 CST

Thunderstorm Wind

52 kts. 0 0 0.00K 0.00K

~ 38 ~

MG

MYRTLEWOOD

MARENGO CO. 04/30/2005 03:35 CST

Thunderstorm Wind

55 kts. EG 0 0 4.00K 0.00K

LINDEN

MARENGO CO. 04/30/2005 04:26 CST

Thunderstorm Wind

52 kts. EG 0 0 4.00K 0.00K

COUNTYWIDE

MARENGO CO. 05/20/2005 14:50 CST

Thunderstorm Wind

54 kts. EG 0 0 23.00K 0.00K

JEFFERSON

MARENGO CO. 05/20/2005 18:35 CST

Thunderstorm Wind

52 kts. EG 0 0 5.00K 0.00K

COUNTYWIDE

MARENGO CO. 05/29/2005 14:25 CST

Thunderstorm Wind

55 kts. EG 0 0 50.00K 0.00K

DEMOPOLIS

MARENGO CO. 05/29/2006 14:30 CST

Thunderstorm Wind

50 kts. EG 0 0 5.00K 0.00K

SWEET WATER

MARENGO CO. 08/05/2006 16:05 CST

Thunderstorm Wind

50 kts. EG 0 0 3.00K 0.00K

LINDEN

MARENGO CO. 08/15/2006 15:30 CST

Thunderstorm Wind

50 kts. EG 0 0 4.00K 0.00K

SWEET WATER

MARENGO CO. 08/21/2006 16:14 CST

Thunderstorm Wind

50 kts. EG 0 0 2.00K 0.00K

FAUNSDALE

MARENGO CO. 11/30/2006 21:52

CST-6

Thunderstorm Wind

50 kts. EG 0 0 3.00K 0.00K

DEMOPOLIS

MARENGO CO. 04/11/2007 13:45

CST-6

Thunderstorm Wind

50 kts. EG 0 0 2.00K 0.00K

LINDEN

MARENGO CO. 07/10/2007 16:47

CST-6

Thunderstorm Wind

50 kts. EG 0 0 2.00K 0.00K

SHORTLEAF

MARENGO CO. 06/17/2008 14:00

CST-6

Thunderstorm Wind

40 kts. EG 0 0 2.00K 0.00K

LINDEN

MARENGO CO. 06/28/2008 17:43

CST-6

Thunderstorm Wind

39 kts. EG 0 0 0.50K 0.00K

~ 39 ~

LINDEN

MARENGO CO. 05/03/2009 12:11

CST-6

Thunderstorm Wind

60 kts. EG 0 1 50.00K 0.00K

JEFFERSON

MARENGO CO. 10/09/2009 13:53

CST-6

Thunderstorm Wind

50 kts. EG 0 0 1.00K 0.00K

SHORTLEAF

MARENGO CO. 04/24/2010 10:05

CST-6

Thunderstorm Wind

62 kts. MG 0 0 5.00K 0.00K

LEVY

MARENGO CO. 04/04/2011 19:05

CST-6

Thunderstorm Wind

50 kts. EG 0 0 5.00K 0.00K

SWEET WATER

MARENGO CO. 04/04/2011 19:05

CST-6

Thunderstorm Wind

50 kts. EG 0 0 5.00K 0.00K

LINDEN

MARENGO CO. 08/18/2012 17:07

CST-6

Thunderstorm Wind

70 kts. EG 0 0 0.00K 0.00K

SHORTLEAF

MARENGO CO. 03/23/2013 18:13

CST-6

Thunderstorm Wind

60 kts. EG 0 0 0.00K 0.00K

SHORTLEAF

MARENGO CO. 06/17/2013 12:36

CST-6

Thunderstorm Wind

50 kts. EG 0 0 0.00K 0.00K

ALLENVILLE

MARENGO CO. 06/17/2013 12:55

CST-6

Thunderstorm Wind

50 kts. EG 0 0 0.00K 0.00K

DEMOPOLIS

MARENGO CO. 07/23/2013 13:30

CST-6

Thunderstorm Wind

55 kts. EG 0 0 0.00K 0.00K

HUGO

MARENGO CO. 04/06/2014 16:28

CST-6

Thunderstorm Wind

60 kts. EG 0 0 0.00K 0.00K

JEFFERSON

MARENGO CO. 07/02/2014 16:25

CST-6

Thunderstorm Wind

50 kts. EG 0 0 0.00K 0.00K

SPOCARI

MARENGO CO. 10/13/2014 13:18

CST-6

Thunderstorm Wind

50 kts. EG 0 0 0.00K 0.00K

Totals: 0 4 468.70K 0.00K

~ 40 ~

Table 8. High wind events from thunderstorms in Marengo County, Alabama (source: NCDC

Database)

Since 1994, there have been 2 major events resulting in damage from lightning. These

damages have resulted in over 150,000 in damage to property. Table 9 lists the events as

described in the NGDC database.

Totals: 0 1 150.00K 0.00K

DEMOPOLIS MARENGO CO. 07/09/2003 20:45 CST Lightning 0 0 150.00K 0.00K

LINDEN MARENGO CO. 06/23/2004 14:15 CST Lightning 0 1 0.00K 0.00K

Totals: 0 1 150.00K 0.00K

Table 9. Lightning events in Marengo County since 1994 (source: NCDC Database)

Community Impact ‐ Since 1975 Marengo County has experienced 168 severe thunderstorms.

Large hail, though very rare, can cause injury or loss of life. Normally it only causes damage to

automobiles, trees and crops. Both lightning and high winds frequently cause loss of life and

considerable property damage. The power of lightning's electrical charge and intense heat can

electrocute on contact, split trees, ignite fires, and cause electrical failures.


systems, capabilities, or activities. The impact of severe storms can be damage to houses and

buildings from wind, lack of access to remote areas due to downed trees and blocked roads,

and emergencies services can be suspended. Utility lines can be damaged causing a lack of

power. This damage can happen in each jurisdiction located within Marengo County.

Location and Extent – All of Marengo County is vulnerable to severe storms with strong winds,

hail and/or lightning. Thunderstorms are classified by NOAA as Single cell, multi cell, Severe,

and Supercell. A “severe thunderstorm” is by definition winds in excess of 50 knots (about 55

MPH) and/or hail .75 inches (some say 1 inch) in diameter, inches of rain. So if they define

what a severe thunderstorm is, then that would be the “at least” extent. Winds up to 250 mph

(Wind Zone IV), Hail up to H10 on TORRO Scale (melon size), Large hail, wind damage,

property damage, crop loss, death, and injury.

Probability of Future Occurrences: The historical occurrence and expected future occurrences

of these events has led the county to rank severe storms as a high risk. The probability of a

~ 41 ~

severe thunderstorm occurring depends on certain atmospheric and climatic conditions.

Based on the number of damage‐ causing severe storms since 1994 contained in the Storm

Events Database, Marengo County can expect approximately four instances of lightning‐,

straight‐line wind‐ or hail‐induced damage per year. Average annual damages from severe

storm events are estimated at $108,000. Although we can extract data and probability of

occurrence from historical information, the risk of a thunderstorm occurring and the location

of damage appear to be a random event.

g. Tornadoes

Hazard Description ‐ A tornado is a violent windstorm characterized by a twisting,

funnel‐shaped cloud. It is spawned by a thunderstorm or hurricane and produced when cool

air overrides a layer of warm air, forcing the warm air to rise rapidly. Tornado season is

generally March through August, although tornadoes can occur at any time of year. They tend

to occur in the afternoons and evenings: over 80 percent of all tornadoes strike between noon

and midnight. The National Weather Service defines a tornado as, “A violently rotating column

of air in contact with the ground and extending from the base of a thunderstorm.

Hazard History – There have been several tornados that have occurred in Marengo County.

The earliest damage‐causing event on record occurred in 1956 and the most recent occurred

in 2011. Tornado magnitudes are measured on the enhanced Fujita Scale. Figure 3 is a

depiction of the original and enhanced Fujita scale.

~ 42 ~

Figure 3. Original and Enhance Fujita Scale for U.S. tornadoes. Source: FEMA

Table 10 includes a list of all the tornadoes greater than F0 that have occurred in Marengo

County since 1961. There are 22 events that have caused damage to property and/or crops.


Totals: 1 12 26.736M 0.00K

MARENGO CO.

MARENGO CO. 02/20/1961 18:00 CST Tornado F1 0 2 25.00K 0.00K

MARENGO CO.


MARENGO CO.


MARENGO CO.


MARENGO CO.


MARENGO CO.


MARENGO CO.


MARENGO CO.


DIXONS MILLS


DIXONS MILLS


MYRTLEWOOD


LINDEN


MYRTLEWOOD


THOMASTON


THOMASTON


LINDEN


~ 43 ~

SHORTLEAF

MARENGO CO. 11/30/2006 21:19

CST-6 Tornado F1 0 0 500.00K 0.00K

MARENGO

MARENGO CO. 01/10/2008 13:08

CST-6 Tornado EF0 0 0 100.00K 0.00K

DEMOPOLIS

MARENGO CO. 01/10/2008 16:08

CST-6

Funnel Cloud 0 0 0.00K 0.00K

DEMOPOLIS

MARENGO CO. 04/24/2010 10:19


NANAFALIA

MARENGO CO. 04/15/2011 11:10


NANAFALIA

MARENGO CO. 04/15/2011 16:04

CST-6 Tornado EF3 1 4 3.990M 0.00K

ANOPIA

MARENGO CO. 04/15/2011 16:19


LINDEN MUNI ARPT

MARENGO CO. 04/15/2011 16:35


NANAFALIA

MARENGO CO. 04/15/2011 17:38


MYRTLEWOOD

MARENGO CO. 04/27/2011 18:54


SHORTLEAF

MARENGO CO. 11/16/2011 07:32


EXMOOR

MARENGO CO. 12/25/2012 15:15


SPOCARI

MARENGO CO. 12/25/2012 17:50


Totals: 1 12 26.736M 0.00K

Table 10. Tornadoes in Marengo County, Alabama. (source: NCDC Database)

According to the database, a total of 22 tornado events have caused 1 deaths, 12 injuries and

approximately $23.76 million in property damage in the county since 1956. The worst

tornado to strike the county was an EF3 in April 2011 that caused 1 death 4 injuries and $17.4

million in damages. The tornado crossed into western Marengo County south of Old Locke 3

Rd and continued to cause significant tree damage as it tracked northeastward. The tornado

crossed AL Hwy 28 south of Pin Hook and US Hwy 43 north of Chickasaw State Park. The

tornado continued northeast through the Faunsdale area where it significantly damaged or

destroyed several outbuildings and homes. At least 3 injuries occurred along Nash Rd. The

tornado crossed US Hwy 80 and into Perry County north of CR 26.

~ 44 ~

There was also a EF2 to hit the same year on April 15, 2011. National Weather Service

meteorologists surveyed the damage near Nanafalia. Winds were estimated at 100 mph.

There were several eyewitness accounts of the tree and minor roof damage, where several

hardwood trees were uprooted and many softwoods were snapped off. The tornado damage

path was 4.21 miles long and was 60 yards wide at its widest point. This tornado started in

Choctaw County Alabama, south southwest of Butler. It was on the ground for almost 5 miles

before it crossed into Marengo County. The damage in Marengo County was mainly to trees.

Therefore, the total tornado damage path was 9.18 miles long. The tornado was 200 yards

wide at its widest point in Marengo County. The highest damage rating was an EF‐1 in both

counties.

A tornado touched down in Marengo County just west of County Road 90 in a rural setting.

The tornado moved northeast and snapped or uprooted dozens of trees. As the tornado

crossed State Highway 69 just south of Myrtlewood, it strengthened to an EF‐3 rating, with

maximum winds of 150 mph. Several dozen mobile homes were heavily damage or destroyed,

resulting in 1 fatality. In the community of Hilltop, several more mobile homes were

destroyed, resulting in 4 injuries. The tornado continued to move northeast where it snapped

and uprooted many more trees. It lifted after it crossed State Highway 28, northwest of

Linden. The tornado had a slight left turn to its path.

~ 45 ~

Figure 4. Historical Tornado Tracks in Marengo County

Community Impact ‐ The damage from a tornado is a result of the high wind velocity and

wind‐blown debris. Tornado winds can approach speeds as high as 300 miles per hour, travel

distances over 100 miles and reach heights over 60,000 feet above ground.


systems, capabilities, or activities. The impact of tornadoes can be damage to houses and




Location and Extent ‐ Paths of tornadoes within a 20‐mile radius of the center of Marengo

County since 1950 have originated in the west and moved toward the east. The entire county

is equally susceptible to damage from tornadoes. According to the National Weather Service,

Marengo County's extent is an EF3. The Enhanced Fujita Scale is referenced above and it could

include extensive property damage possible, death, and injury.

Probability of Future Occurrences ‐ The occurrence of tornadoes cannot be predicted, but past

occurrences and basic weather patterns can be used to identify areas that are more

~ 46 ~

susceptible. Based on the information available from the Storm Events Database, it appears

the county may expect a damage‐causing tornado once every 5.5 years. A death‐ or injury‐

causing tornado has occurred, on average, once every 18 and 3.5 years, respectively. Average

annual damages are estimated at $74,000 per year. Although we can extract data and

probability of occurrence from historical information, the risk of a tornado occurring and the

location of damage appear to be a random event. Figure 6 shows the number of tornadoes

that have occurred per one thousand square miles. Marengo County falls within the one to

five tornadoes per one thousand square miles range.

Figure 5. Tornadoes per 1,000 square miles. Source:

http://www.fema.gov/pdf/library/2ismsec1.pdf

The United States Wind Zone map (Figure 7) shows how intense and frequent strong winds

occur across the United States. Marengo County is located in Wind Zone II, which has a design

wind speed of 200 miles per hour. Design wind speed is the wind speed that homes should be

constructed to withstand. Locations within this zone have had the medium intensity and

frequency of tornadoes and strong winds. Due to the county’s historical occurrences, climate,

and location the committee considers tornadoes a high risk hazard.

~ 47 ~

Figure 6. Wind Zones in the United States – Note Marengo County is in Zone III.

Source: Federal Emergency Management Agency:

http://www.fema.gov/graphics/fima/tsfsm01.gif

Extent – Tornado Intensity is measured using the Fujita‐Pearson Scale of Torndo Intensity .

F0 40‐72 mph Gale tornado ‐‐ Light damage. Some damage to chimneys; break branches off trees; push over shallow‐rooted trees; damage sign boa

F1 73‐112 mph Moderate tornado ‐‐ Moderate damage. The lower limit is the beginning of hurricane wind speed; peel surface off roofs; mobile hom

pushed off foundations or overturned; moving autos pushed off the roads.

F2 113‐157

mph

Significant tornado ‐‐ Considerable damage. Roofs torn off frame houses; mobile homes demolished; pushed over; large trees snapp

uprooted; light‐object missiles generated.

F3 158‐206

mph

Severe tornado ‐‐ Severe damage. Roofs and some walls torn off well‐constructed houses; trains overturned; most trees in forest

uprooted; heavy cars lifted off the ground and thrown.

F4 207‐260

mph

Devastating tornado ‐‐ Devastating damage. Well‐constructed houses leveled; structures with weak foundations blown off some dista

cars thrown and large missiles generated.

F5 261‐318

mph

Incredible tornado ‐‐ Incredible damage. Strong frame houses lifted off foundations and carried considerable distance to disintegrate

automobile sized missiles fly through the air in excess of 100 meters(109 yards); trees debarked; incredible phenomena will occur.

F6

‐

F12

319 mph ‐

MACH 1

the speed

of sound

The maximum wind speeds of tornadoes are not expected to reach the F6 wind speeds.

~ 48 ~

h. Wildfire

Hazard Description ‐ There are four categories of wildfires that are experienced throughout

the United States including: wildland fires, interface or intermix fires, firestorms,

prescribed fires and prescribed natural fires. The primary categories of fires in Marengo

County are wildland fires. Wildland fires are fueled exclusively by natural vegetation. The

frequency and severity of wildfires is dependent on weather and on human activity. Nearly all

wildfires in Marengo County are human caused (only a very small percent are caused by

lightning), with arson and careless debris burning being the major causes of wildfires. If not

promptly controlled, wildfires may grow into an emergency or disaster. Even small fires can

threaten lives, damage forest resources, and destroy structures.

Hazard History – According the NCDC database, there has been no significant fire in Marengo

County. From 10/1/2008 to 9/30/2011, there were 150 reported fires for a total of 1054 acres

burned. Map 7 depicts fire occurrence for every 1000 acres. This map depicts areas of low,

medium, high and extreme fire location. There have been extreme fires in several locations

throughout Marengo County, but overall the majority of the county’s area has been low to

medium fire occurrence.

~ 49 ~

Map 7. Fires per 1000 acres in Marengo County, Alabama (source: Alabama Forestry

Commission)

~ 50 ~

Community Impact ‐ Wildfires can cause considerable damage and loss of life especially in

areas where there is an interface between wild land and urban development. Marengo

County has multiple fuel sources and is prone to drought and thunderstorms; therefore,

wildfires are a significant risk. Furthermore, rural fire departments are almost exclusively

made up of volunteers and usually have limited resources that are stretched during periods

when numerous fires occur.


systems, capabilities, or activities. The impact of severe storms can be damage to houses and




Location and Extent – Wildland fires can occur anywhere in Marengo County, however the risk

is higher in rural forested areas. Extent of wildfire is measured by acres burned.

Probability of Future Occurrences: Based on historical information, Marengo County can

expect an average of 50 significant wildfires per year that damage or destroy an average of

21.08 acres per event. Although one can extract data and probability of occurrence from

historical information, the risk of a wild fire occurring and the location of damage appear to be

random.

~ 51 ~

Map 8 ‐ Marengo County Fire Risk – Source Alabama Forestry Commission

~ 52 ~

i. Drought/Heat Waves

Hazard Description – Extreme summer heat is the combination of very high temperatures and

exceptionally humid conditions. If such conditions persist for an extended period of time, it is

called a heat wave. Heat stress can be indexed by combing the effects of temperature and

humidity. Temperatures that hove 10 degrees or more above the average high temperature

for the region and last for several weeks are defined as extreme heat. Humid or muggy

conditions occur when a “dome” of high atmospheric pressure traps hazy, damp air near the

ground. The combined high temperatures and humid conditions increase the level of

discomfort and the potential for danger to humans. Droughts occur when a long period passes

without any substantial rainfall. A heat wave combined with ad drought is very dangerous to

human life and the environment.

Hazard History ‐ There have been 6 major extreme heat events since 1996 and 18 droughts in

Marengo County according to the National Climate Data Center database.

Totals: 0 0 0.00K 0.00K

MARENGO (ZONE) MARENGO (ZONE) 02/23/1996 08:00 CST Heat 0 0 0.00K 0.00K

MARENGO (ZONE) MARENGO (ZONE) 07/01/2000 00:01 CST Heat 0 0 0.00K 0.00K

MARENGO (ZONE) MARENGO (ZONE) 08/08/2007 12:00 CST-6 Heat 0 0 0.00K 0.00K




Totals: 0 0 0.00K 0.00K

Table 11. Excessive Heat events in Marengo County, Alabama. (source: NCDC Database)

Totals: 0 0 0.00K 0.00K

MARENGO (ZONE) MARENGO (ZONE) 07/11/2006 07:00 CST Drought 0 0 0.00K 0.00K



MARENGO (ZONE) MARENGO (ZONE) 03/27/2007 06:00 CST-6 Drought 0 0 0.00K 0.00K


~ 53 ~














Totals: 0 0 0.00K 0.00K

Community Impact – The human risks associated with extreme heat include heatstroke, heat

exhaustion, and heat syncope, heat cramps. A description of each of these conditions follows:

Heatstroke is considered a medical emergency and is often fatal. It exists when rectal

temperature rises above 105°F as a result of environmental temperatures. Patients

may be delirious or comatose. The death‐to‐care ratio in reported cases averages

about 15%.

Heat Exhaustion is much less severe than heatstroke. The body temperature may be

normal or slightly elevated. A person suffe1ing from heat exhaustion may complain of

dizziness, weakness or fatigue. The primary cause of heat exhaustion is fluid and

electrolyte imbalance. The normalization of fluids will typically alleviate the situation.

Heat Syncope is typically associated with exercise by people who are not acclimated

to exercise. The symptom is a sudden loss of consciousness. Consciousness returns

promptly when the person lies down. The cause is primarily associated with

circulatory instability as a result of heat. The condition typically causes little or no

harm to the individual.

Heat Cramps are typically a problem for individuals who exercise outdoors but arc

unaccustomed to heat. Similar to heat exhaustion it is thought to be a result of a mild

imbalance of t1uids and electrolytes.

Risks associated with drought include effects to the water supply, impact on agriculture,

increase in wildfires, negative impact on hydroelectric power, and other activities dependent

on water such as recreation and navigation. According to the U.S. Drought Monitor effective

July 2, 2013, Marengo County is currently under a moderate drought condition.

~ 54 ~


systems, capabilities, or activities. The impact of drought can be damage to houses and

buildings located in the rural areas of the County. Further, damage timber and crops can be

impacted by severe droughts, causing an economic hazard to the county’s economy.

Figure 7 – U.S. Drought Monitor – July 2, 2013 Source: www.droughmonitor.unl.edu

Location and extent –All of Marengo County and its jurisdictions are vulnerable to impacts

from droughts. Extent of droughts are measured by Palmer Drought Severity Index and the

Keetch‐Byram Drought Index (KBDI). The extent includes temperatures above 100°,D4

drought, crop loss, public health concern, and wildfire susceptibility.

Probability of Future Occurrences – Due to a lack of data, average annual occurrences and

damage estimates cannot be made. Historically these events do not pose severe risk as the

residents in these areas are well‐adapted to heat and dry conditions. There have been 3

events in the past 11 years, resulting in a probability of 27% these events can occur on annual

basis. There is not a summary of impact of costs as not data was collected during previous

events, however losses are expected to be minimal.

j. Winter Storms/Freezes

Hazard Description – Winter storms vary in size and strength and include heavy snowstorms,

blizzards, freezing rain, sleet, ice storms and blowing and drifting snow conditions. Extremely

cold temperatures accompanied by strong winds can results in wind chills then cause bodily

~ 55 ~

injury such as frostbite and death. Severe winter and ice storms can cause unusually heavy

rain or snowfall, high wind, extreme cold and ice storms throughout Marengo County. Winter

storms and blizzards originate as mid‐latitude depressions or cyclonic weather systems,

sometimes following the meandering path of the jet stream. A blizzard combines heavy

snowfall, high winds, extreme cold, and ice storms. The origins of the weather patterns that

cause severe winter storms arc primarily from four sources in the continental United States.

Winter storms in the southeast region are usually a result of Canadian and Arctic cold fronts

from the north and mid‐western states combining with tropical cyclonic weather systems in

the Gulf of Mexico.

Hazard History – According to the NCDC database, there have been three Winter Storm events

since 2000.

Totals: 0 0 0.00K 0.00K

MARENGO (ZONE)

MARENGO (ZONE) 12/21/2000 05:00 CST

Winter Storm 0 0 0.00K 0.00K

MARENGO (ZONE)

MARENGO (ZONE) 01/01/2001 03:00 CST


MARENGO (ZONE)

MARENGO (ZONE) 01/28/2014 06:35

CST-6


Totals: 0 0 0.00K 0.00K

Table 13. Winter Storm events in Marengo County, Alabama. (source: NCDC Database)

Community Impact: Risks associated with winter storms are a direct correlation to the

strength of the storm and the region's ability to handle a storm. The risks include loss of life

due to cold and disruption of transportation routes, loss of electricity for extended periods,

and impact on agriculture.


systems, capabilities, or activities. The impact of freezes can be damage water and plumbing

infrastructure. Further, it can risk the viability of agricultural activities in Marengo County.

Location and Extent ‐ All of Marengo County and its jurisdictions are susceptible to a winter

storms or freezes. Extent of winter storms is measured. Between 6‐12 inches of snow leading

to tree damage, utility damage, property damage, death and serious injury.

Probability of Future Occurrences ‐ Due to a lack of data, average annual occurrences and

damage estimates cannot be made. However, Marengo County does not have a considerable

~ 56 ~

risk of a winter storm occurring and it has a high threat of a winter storm adversely affecting

the area. This is a direct result to the area's ability to handle a severe winter storm. Although

they are rare, Marengo County is susceptible to winter storms.

k. Levee/Dam Failures

Hazard Description – A dam is barriers constructed across a water course in order to store,

control, or divert water. Dams are usually constructed of earth, rock, concrete, or mine

tailings. The water impounded behind a dam is referred to as the reservoir and is measured in

acre‐feet, with one‐afoot being the volume of water that covers one acre of land to a depth of

one foot. Due to topography, even a small dam may have a reservoir containing many acre‐

feet of water. A dam failure is the collapse, breach or other failure of a dame that causes

downstream flooding. Dam failures may result from natural events, human‐caused events, or

a combination thereof. Due to the lack of advance warning, failures resulting from natural

events, such as hurricanes, earthquakes, or landslides, may be particularly severe. Prolonged

rainfall that produces flooding is the most common cause of dame failure, according to FEMA.

Dam failures usually occur when the spillway capacity if inadequate and water overtops the

dam or when internal erosion through the dam foundation occurs (also known as piping). If

internal erosion or overtopping cause a full structural breach, a high‐velocity, debris laden

wall of water is released and rushed downstream, damaging or destroying whatever is in its

path.

Hazard History – No dam/levee failure events have ever been reported in Marengo County.

Community Impact – When a dam fails, a large quantity of water is suddenly released

downstream, destroying anything in its path. The area impacted by the water emitted by

dame failure would encounter the same risks as those in a flood zone during periods of

flooding. The area directly affected by the water released during a dam failure is not county

wide.


systems, capabilities, or activities. The impact of levee dam can be rapid flooding of low lying

area. This hazard would most likely impact Dempolis as is is directly downstearm from a dam

in the Tombigbee River. However, any residence or building constructed down or levee could

be impacted anywhere in Marengo County.

Dam Failure

The National Inventory of Dams lists twenty‐five dams as being located in Marengo County.

This number differs from the number in the previous plan, due to the fact that not all of the

~ 57 ~

previously identified dams meet the National Inventory of Dams criteria. The NID consists of

dams meeting at least one of the following criteria: 1) High hazard classification ‐ loss of one

human life is likely if the dam fails, 2) Significant hazard classification ‐ possible loss of human

life and likely significant property or environmental destruction, 3) Equal or exceed 25 feet in

height and exceed 15 acre‐feet in storage, 4) Equal or exceed 50 acre‐feet storage and exceed

6 feet in height.

The table below gives the number of dams classified in each potential downstream hazard

category. One dam is classified as having high hazard potential; meaning their failure or

misoperation would probably result in the loss of human life. Six dams are listed in the

significant risk category meaning their failure or misoperation would probably not result in the

loss of life, but would result in economic loss, environmental damage, and disruption of

lifeline facilities. The remaining eighteen dams in the county are listed as at low risk meaning

that their failure or misoperation would not result in the loss of life and only low economic or

environmental damage.

The Demopolis Lock and Dam located in Marengo is a high‐risk dam operated by the Corps of

Engineers. The failure of this dam could potentially affect the City of Demopolis water supply

and damage infrastructure within Maregno County. The Corps of Engineers have operating

procedures and plans to monitor and prevent this from occurring. At this time the Natural

Hazards Steering Committee feels that although dam failure is a hazard, it will be classified as

low risk. This decision

was made due to the extensive planning the Corps of Engineers has undertaken at the

Demopolis Lock &Dam and the sparse populations around the significant risk dams.

Location and Extents. Extent of Dam safety is measured by using the National Inventory of

Dams (NID) includes a Hazard Potential Rating: Low, Significant or High. Demopolis Dam

failure would cause extensive damage, loss of life, crop loss, and environmental damages.

National Inventory of Dams Risk Categories: Marengo County

Hazard Categories Number of Dams

High 1

Significant 6

Low 18

Total 25

Probability of Future Occurrences ‐ The risks associated with dam‐levee failure are the same

as those risks associated with flooding. Risks to Marengo County are minimal. The probability

of future occurrences cannot be characterized on a countywide basis because of the lack of

information available.

~ 58 ~

l. Landslides

Hazard Description ‐ A "landslide" is the downward and outward movement of slopes. The

terms refers various forming materials acting under the force of gravity. The term covers a

broad category of events, including mudflows, mudslides, debris flows, rock falls, rockslides,

debris avalanches, debris slides and earth flows. Landslides may consist of natural rock, soil,

artificial fill, or combinations of these materials. Landslides are classified by type of

movement, including; slides, flows, lateral spreads, falls and topples. A "landslide" is the

downward and outward movement of slope ‐ forming materials acting under the force of

gravity. The term covers a broad category of events, including mudflows, mudslides, debris

flows, rock falls, rockslides, debris avalanches, debris slides and earth flows. Landslides may

consist of natural rock, soil, artificial fill, or combinations of these materials. Landslides are

classified by type of movement, including; slides, flows, lateral spreads, falls and topples.

Almost any steep or rugged terrain is susceptible to landslide under the right conditions. The

most hazardous areas are steep slopes on ridges, hill and mountains; incised stream channels;

and slopes excavated for buildings and roads. Slid potentials are enhanced where slopes are

destabilized by construction or river erosion. Road cut s and other altered ore excavated areas

are particularly susceptible to landslides and debris flows. Rainfall and seismic shaking by

earthquakes or blasting can trigger landslides.

Debris flows (also referred to as mudslides) generally occur during intense rainfall on water

saturated soils. They usually start on steep hillsides as soil slumps or slides that liquefy and

accelerate to speeds as great as 35 miles per hour. Multiple debris flows may merge, gain

volume and travel long distances from their source, making areas down slope particularly

hazardous. Surface runoff channels along roadways and below culverts are common sites of

debris flows and other landslides.

Hazard History ‐ No instances of landslides were reported by the planning committee or

revealed by an Internet search.

Community Impact ‐ The effects of landslides are often misrepresented as being the result of

the landslide's trigger event, such as a flood, earthquake, volcanic eruption, hurricane, or

coastal storm. The impact from a landslide can include loss of life, damage to buildings, lost

productivity, disruption in utilities and transportation systems, and reduced property values.


systems, capabilities, or activities. The impact of a landslide can crush a home or bulding.

Further, roads can be impassible.

Location and Extent – Only one recorded landslide event has occurred in Marengo County.

The northern area of the county lies in an area of moderate incidence, according to the

Geological Survey of Alabama. This area is depicted on Map 10. The lack of landslide

~ 59 ~

incidences in the county may be attributable to the lack of major development in this area. A

landslide extent in Marengo County is measured 10,000 cubic yards of earth moved.

Probability of Future Occurrences: The probability of future occurrences of landslides in

Marengo County is extremely slight everywhere.

Map 10 – Statewide Landslide Incidence in and Susceptibility by County. Source:

Geological Survey of Alabama

m. Earthquakes

Hazard Description ‐ An earthquake is a sudden, rapid shaking of the earth caused by the

breaking and shifting of rock beneath the earth's surface. An earthquake is “… a sudden

motion or trembling caused by an abrupt release of accumulated strain in the tectonic plates

that comprise the earth’s crust”. These rigid plates, known as tectonic plates, are some 5—60

miles in thickness and move slowly and continuously over the earth’s interior. The plates meet

along their edges were they move away, past or under each other at rates varying form less

~ 60 ~

than a fraction of an inch up to five inches per year. While this sounds small, at a rate of two

inches per year, a distance of 20 miles would be covered in approximately one million years.

The tectonic plates continually bump, slide, catch, and hold as they move past each other

which causes stress to accumulate along faults. When this stress exceeds the elastic limit of

the rock, an earthquake occurs, immediately causing sudden ground motion and seismic

activity. Secondary hazards may also occur, such as surface faulting, sinkholes and landslides.

While the majority of earthquake occur near the edges of the tectonic plates, eathquakes may

also occur at the interior of plates.

Hazard History – The is only one recorded incident of an earthquake in Marengo County. Map

11 depicts historical earthquake occurences in Marengo County.

~ 61 ~

Map 11 – Historical Incidence of Earthquakes in Marengo County, Alabama Source:

Geological Survey of Alabama

Community Impact ‐ The USGS has developed a methodology for identifying an area's

vulnerability to the occurrence of an earthquake. Areas are identified by their relative seismic

risk. Marengo County is located in an area with a probability of exceedence between 2% and

3% in 50 years. This is an area of slight risk as illustrated in Map 4‐8.


systems, capabilities, or activities. The impact of earthquakes can be damage to buildings and

homes. All jurisdictions are susceptible to damage from earthquakes.

Location and Extent ‐ All of Marengo County is susceptible to an earthquake. Earthquakes are

measured using the Richter scale. The extent of a serious earthquake would be stong

earthquake resulting in death and property damage.

Probability of Future Occurrences ‐ The risk of a significant, damage causing earthquake in the

Marengo County is very small.

Map 12 – Probability of Incidences of Earthquakes. Source: United States Geological Survey

n. Vulnerability Assessment and Identification of Assets

This section assesses vulnerability of types and numbers of existing buildings and critical

facilities (including infrastructure) located within each identified hazard area. The only

identified hazard, which is area specific within the county, is flooding. Consequently, all

~ 62 ~

buildings and critical facilities are exposed to all remaining hazards. The building counts and

values are taken from the HAZUS databases. These are not current counts, but data

availability is limited. Dollar values are not adjusted to current values. Designation of a

facility as critical is based on the HAZUS definitions, as follows:

Essential Facilities. These facilities are critical to the health and welfare of the entire

county population and are essential following hazard events, including emergency

response facilities (police, fire, and emergency management), medical care facilities

(hospitals and other care facilities), schools, and shelters for evacuation.

Lifeline Utility Systems. These facilities are essential lifelines that include potable water,

wastewater, natural gas, electric, and communications systems.

Transportation Systems. These facilities include highways, bridges, railways, and

waterways.

High Potential Loss Facilities. These facilities include military installations and high

potential loss dams.

Hazardous Materials Facilities. These facilities may pose a threat if disrupted by natural

hazards and include hazardous industrial chemicals, explosives, flammables, toxins, and

radioactive materials.

i. Building Assets – Marengo County has over 5400 buildings valued at over $600

million. All of the buildings are at risk for natural hazards damages.

Number of Buildings by Type

Residential Commercial Industrial Agriculture Religious Government Education Total

4450 200 40 647 29 16 18 5400

Source: Marengo County Revenue Commission

Value by Type of Building

Residential Commercial Industrial Agriculture Religious Government Education Total

$78,512,000.00 $4,550,774.00 $3,425,656.00 $984,754.00 $3,258,745.00 $185,201.00 $245,747.00 $91,162,877.00

Source: FEMA HAZUS and Marengo County Revenue Commission

ii. Critical Facilities – The Hazard Mitigation Planning Committee updated this list of

critical facilities in Marengo County included in the 2010 Hazard Mitigation Plan. The

groups of critical facilities include communication facilities, emergency response

facilities, hazardous material sites, medical care facilities, and schools. Maps of each

~ 63 ~

of these facilities are depicted in Maps 13‐17. The Marengo County Hazard Mitigation

Steering Committee identified critical facilities in the following six categories:

i. A critical facility is critical to the health and welfare of the entire jurisdiction. They

become essential in the event of a natural disaster. These facilities include police

stations, fire stations, schools, and hospitals.

ii. Critical facilities are lifelines that provide the jurisdiction with necessities such as

potable water.

iii. Critical facilities include the transportation corridors necessary to keep the

jurisdiction connected.

iv. Critical facilities include those facilities that house persons with special needs

(jails, nursing homes). They may also include locations where large groups often

meet.

v. Critical facilities include locations with hazardous materials. These materials may

pose a threat to health and safety if disrupted.

vi. Critical facilities include those in which potential losses, both human and

economic, are high.

The list of Marengo County Critical Facilities was updated from the previous plan and

information and costs were provided by each jurisdiction. If a critical facility was

removed, it is no longer considered a facility at risk in Marengo County.

~ 64 ~

Marengo County Commission – Critical Facilities

Facility Location Estimated Cost

Marengo County High School Dixons Mills $20,000,000

Surginer VFD Surginer $500,000

Jefferson VFD Jefferson $500,000

Dixons Mills VFD Dixon Mills $500,000

Old Spring Hill VFD Spring Hill $500,000

Putnam VFD Putman $500,000

Courthouse Linden $15,000,000

Jail Linden $10,000,000

Annex Linden $4,000,000

Armory Linden $1,000,000

E911 Linden $500,000

County Shop/Engineers Office Linden $500,000 2560

2010 Pierce Class A tanker/pumper

$250,000

1020 gallon tank

SCBAs

Generator and Lighting

JAWs of Life

Foam equipped

2563

1989 Ford Big Red 5800 Tanker $160,000

1400 gallon

SCBAs

2564

1982 Tas Ford Class /Tanker‐Pumper

$150,000

5800 Darley Pumper

1500 gallon tank

Backup Woods and grass

SCBAs

2565

1982 Pierce Class A Pumper $180,000

1000 gallon

SCBAs

Foam equiped

32 buckets of 6% AFFF foam in station

Aqueous Film Foaming

~ 65 ~

Buckeye Part # 50130

2566

Brushfire truck with skid tank and pump

$60,000

4‐wheel drive diesel

200 gallon skid tank and pump system

2567 Command Vehicle

2003 Ford Expediton $30,000

2 SCBAs

First aid traumer kit

Portable Medical oxygen system

Front VHF and UHF radios

Rear Command Center with VHF UHF Radios

2570

Emergency Paramedic Equipment Rescue Truck

$100,000

fully equipted

Oxygen System

2‐Jaws of Life Systems

spine boards

stokes stretcher

Stair stretcher

2571

1998 Chevrolet Rescue Truck $50,000

#2 Paramedic Equipment Rescue Truck

Boats

Four 14 ft Boats ‐ 1700 $6800

2‐trailers $1000

three outboard motors $10,000

Off road vehicles or ATV

Four Wheelers

#1 Yanaha Moto 4 $7000

#2 Artic Cat $7000

~ 66 ~

Portable Generators

#1. Sears small genator 3000 watt red ribbon on it

$1200

#2. Coleman Powermat‐ 6250 wattage

$1200

#3. Colman Powermate‐ 6250 wattage

$1200

#4. Coleman Powermate ‐5000 Extended Run wattage

$1200

Lighting

Power Saws

#1. Husqvarno 55cc 3.9 hp 20 in bar

$600


$600


$600


#5. Ole Blue Homelite SXL 20 in bar

$400

Target Steel Cutting saw $600

Axes

Wedges

Station # 1 Linden, Alabama $80,000

Station # 2 Providence, Alabama $150,000

Total $ 1,249,400

Town of Dayton Critical Facilities

Facility Location Estimated Replacement Cost

Dayton Town Hall Dayton $150,000

~ 67 ~

City of Demopolis Critical Facilities – Fire Department

City of Demopolis Fire and

Rescue Critical Facility

Costs

Facility

Estimated

Value

Replacement

Cost

Fire Station‐1

Ladder‐1 (1996)

Engine‐1 (1992)

Battalion‐1 (2011) w/equip

Car‐2 (2003)

Chevrolet P/U (1999) $ 480,000.00 $ 850,000.00

$ 160,000.00 $ 400,000.00

$ 50,000.00 $ 65,000.00

$ 15,000.00 $ 35,000.00

$ 10,000.00 $ 25,000.00

Headquarters structure $ 1,500,000.00

$ 2,875,000.00

Fire Station‐2

Engine‐2 (2003) $ 326,000.00 $ 450,000.00

Mass Casualty trailer

w/equip (2005) $ 88,447.00 $ 150,000.00

fire boat ? $ 10,000.00

Station‐2 structure ? $ 1,000,000.00

4/28/2014 $ 1,610,000.00

Fire Station‐3

~ 68 ~

Engine‐3 (2008) $ 425,000.00 $ 450,000.00

Haz‐Mat F250 truck (2006)

w/equip $ 99,283.00 $ 200,000.00

Haz‐Mat trailer W equip

(1997)FL‐70 $ 90,215.00 $ 280,000.00

Repeater & tower (2008) $ 40,000.00 $ 80,000.00

Station‐3 structure $ 800,000.00 $ 1,500,000.00

$ 2,510,000.00

Demopolis Public Works Department


Tractor—w/hydraulic boom cutter

Demopolis $100,000

Tymco Sweeper Demopolis $120,000

Forklift Demopolis $30,000

Tractor Demopolis $20,000


Rhino Cutter Demopolis $25,000

Tractor Ford Demopolis $40,000


Portable mobile welder Demopolis $4,000

Backhoe Demopolis $175,000

Self Dumping Trailers (2) Demopolis $8,000

Mowers (3) Demopolis $25,000

Gator Demopolis $8,000

Portable Pressure washers Demopolis $10,000

16’ Trailers (4) Demopolis $15,000

Assorted Equipment—tamper‐concrete mixer‐Tar wagon‐‐‐‐‐ Portable trash vacuum‐Flail mower‐air compressors

Demopolis $30,000

Motorgrader Demopolis $90,000

Office building Demopolis $100,000

Shop with Equipment Demopolis $200,000

Dump Truck Demopolis $50,000

Pickup Truck (17) Demopolis $500,000

Cover Sheds Demopolis $200,00

Sign Shop Demopolis $400,000

~ 69 ~

Demopolis Library Inventory


Collections $849,685.00Data Systems/Technology

$88,748.75

Desks $7,800.00

Furnishings $35,912.50

Misc. Furnishings $35,149.75

Office Machines $20,523.75

Shelving $60,091.37

Tables $32,852.56

Art $5,000.00

Circulation Desks $20,000.00

Outside Railing $3,000.00

Awnings $5,000.00

Building $2,000,000.00

Town of Faunsdale Critical Facilities

Facility Estimated Cost

Town Hall $300,000

Water Tank and Pump $750,000

Old Town Hall $75,000

Senior Citizens Center $250,000

Fire Department $500,000

City of Linden Critical Facilities


Airplane Hangar $19,800

City Hall $325,000

Control Pit and Equipment CR 44 $45,000

Dayton Deep well $480,000

Fire Department $520,000

Industrial Park $110,000

Maintenance Shop $350,000

Police Department $185,000

Pumping Station – Highway 43 North $45,000

Scott Park $250,000

Sewer Pumping Station – Sammie Drive $30,000

Sewer Pumping Station – Anderson Cr. $30,000

~ 70 ~

Sewer Pumping Station – Frisco Street $30,000

Sewer Pumping Station – Williams Street $30,000

Street Department Equipment $200,000

Utility Department Equipment $450,000

Water Tank – CR 1 $370,000

Water Tank – Dayton $425,000

Water Tank – East Coates $350,000

Water Valve – CR 44 and Highway 43 $8,400

Linden Elementary $1,188,486

Linden High $3,406,736

G.P. Austin $2,394,638

Marengo Technology Center $3,256,214

Marengo Alternative School $15,000,000

Marengo Academy $12,500,000

Marengo County Nursing Home $50,000,000

City of Linden Fire Department – Generator $8,500

City of Linden Closed in Trailer $12,000

Backhoe – City Shop $54,000

Zero Turn Mower $7,500

Tractor and Cutter $42,000

Backhoe $58,000

Sewer Camera $9,700

Utilities Zero Turn Mower $7,500

Town of Myrtlewood Critical Facilities


Myrtlewood Community Center $400,000

Myrtlewood VFD $500,000

Town Hall and Water Department $150,000

Water Tank #1 $150,000




Well #1 $50,000

Well #2 $50,000

Well #3 $350,000

Town of Providence Critical Facilities


Town Hall $150,000

~ 71 ~

Town of Sweet Water Critical Facilities


Town Hall $250,000

Water Tank $110,000

Sweet Water VFD Station #1 $150,000

Sweet Water VFD Station #2 $150,000

Sweet Water Recreation Park $250,000

Old Doctor’s office $20,000

Town Rental House $45,000

Sweet Water Country Shed $10,000

Pump House and water pump $23,000

Sweet Water High School $20,000,000

South Marengo Fire and Rescue $400,000

Town of Thomaston Critical Facilities


City Shop $375,000

Town Hall $355,000

Well #3 $267,000

50K Elevated Water Tower $339,000

250K Water Tank $470,000

South Marengo Booster Pump $150,000

Police/Fire Department $523,000

Post Office $330,000

Civic Center/Cafeteria $100,000

Total $2,909,000

~ 72 ~

Map 13 – Marengo County Communication Facilities

|

~ 73 ~

Map 14 – Marengo County Emergency Facilities

~ 74 ~

Map 15 – Marengo County Hazardous Materials

~ 75 ~

Map 16 – Marengo County Medical Facilities

~ 76 ~

Map 17 – Marengo County Schools

~ 77 ~

vii. Estimated Losses by Hazard – Table 13 list the population of each jurisdiction and

the estimated number of people vulnerable to the hazard for each jurisdiction in

Marengo County. Note it is estimated that 5% of the land area is in a flood zone in

Marengo County. Therefore, it is assumed 5% of the population is vulnerable to

flooding. Table 14 analyzes the number of building exposed to each hazard type

and Table 15 lists the amount of Cost of property exposed to hazards. The

methodology used to determine the value used data from the HAZUS database

along the property assessments made available from the Marengo County

Revenue Commission. Table 16 lists the number future buildings and Table 16 lists

the value of future structures.

There are several entities in Marengo County that participate in the National

Flood Insurance Program (NFIP) including unincorporated Marengo County,

City of Demopolis, City of Linden, and Town of Providence. The other

jurisdictions (Town of Dayton, Town of Faunsdale, Town of Myrtlewood, Town

of Thomaston, and Town of Sweet Water are exempt). According to FEMA’s

Policy Statistics updated 12/31/2014, there have been 102 policies issued

since 1980 for both all active entities in Marengo County. The value of all the

policies written in‐force is $13,325,100 for Marengo County.


Dayton

Demopolis Faunsdale Linden Myrtlewood Providence Sweet Water

Thomaston

Hurricane/Tropical Storm

10232 52

7483 98 2123 130 220 258 417

Flood 511 3 374 5 106 7 11 13 21

Severe Storm 10232 52

7483 98 2123 130 220 258 417

Tornadoes 10232 52

7483 98 2123 130 220 258 417

Wildfire 10232 52

7483 98 2123 130 220 258 417

Drought/Heat Waves

10232 52

7483 98 2123 130 220 258 417

Winter Storms/Freezes

10232 52

7483 98 2123 130 220 258 417

Levee/Dam Failures

10232 52

7483 98 2123 130 220 258 417

Landslides 10232 52

7483 98 2123 130 220 258 417

Earthquakes 10232 52

7483 98 2123 130 220 258 417

~ 78 ~

Table 13. Population vulnerable to hazards in Marengo County, Alabama

Number of Buildings Exposed to Hazards

Residential Commercial Industrial Agriculture Religious Government EducationHurricane/Tropical Storm 9087 127 78 14 38 14 15 Flood 454 6 4 1 2 1 1 Severe Storm 9087 127 78 14 38 14 15 Tornadoes 9087 127 78 14 38 14 15 Wildfire 9087 127 78 14 38 14 15 Drought/Heat Waves 9087 127 78 14 38 14 15 Winter Storms/Freezes 9087 127 78 14 38 14 15 Levee/Dam Failures 9087 127 78 14 38 14 15 Landslides 9087 127 78 14 38 14 15 Earthquakes 9087 127 78 14 38 14 15

~ 79 ~

Table 14. Number of building exposed to hazards in Marengo County, Alabama. Source HAZUS database and

Marengo County Commission.

Value of Property Exposed to Hazards

Residential Commercial Industrial Agriculture Religious Government Education

Hurricane/Tropical Storm $78,512,000.00 $4,550,774.00 $3,425,656.00 $984,754.00 $3,258,745.00 $185,201.00 $245,747.00

Flood $3,925,600.00 $227,538.70 $171,282.80 $49,237.70 $162,937.25 $9,260.05 $12,287.35

Severe Storm $78,512,000.00 $4,550,774.00 $3,425,656.00 $984,754.00 $3,258,745.00 $185,201.00 $245,747.00

Tornadoes $78,512,000.00 $4,550,774.00 $3,425,656.00 $984,754.00 $3,258,745.00 $185,201.00 $245,747.00

Wildfire $78,512,000.00 $4,550,774.00 $3,425,656.00 $984,754.00 $3,258,745.00 $185,201.00 $245,747.00

Drought/Heat Waves $78,512,000.00 $4,550,774.00 $3,425,656.00 $984,754.00 $3,258,745.00 $185,201.00 $245,747.00

Winter Storms/Freezes $78,512,000.00 $4,550,774.00 $3,425,656.00 $984,754.00 $3,258,745.00 $185,201.00 $245,747.00

Levee/Dam Failures $78,512,000.00 $4,550,774.00 $3,425,656.00 $984,754.00 $3,258,745.00 $185,201.00 $245,747.00

Landslides $78,512,000.00 $4,550,774.00 $3,425,656.00 $984,754.00 $3,258,745.00 $185,201.00 $245,747.00

Earthquakes $78,512,000.00 $4,550,774.00 $3,425,656.00 $984,754.00 $3,258,745.00 $185,201.00 $245,747.00

Table 15 – Value of Property exposed to Hazards in Marengo County, Alabama (source HAZUS and Marengo County Commission

Residential Commercial Industrial Agriculture Religious Government EducationHurricane/Tropical Storm

4450 200 40 647 29 16 18

Flood 454 6 4 1 2 1 1 Severe Storm 4450 200 40 647 29 16 18 Tornadoes 4450 200 40 647 29 16 18 Wildfire 4450 200 40 647 29 16 18 Drought/Heat Waves

4450 200 40 647 29 16 18


4450 200 40 647 29 16 18

Levee/Dam Failures

4450 200 40 647 29 16 18

Landslides 4450 200 40 647 29 16 18 Earthquakes 4450 200 40 647 29 16 18

Table 16: Vulnerability of the types and number of future buildings, infrastructure, and critical facilities located

in Hazard Areas (Note – this analysis assumes a 0% growth rate)

Value of Property Exposed to Hazards – Future Buildings

Residential Commercial Industrial Agriculture Religious Government Education

Hurricane/Tropical Storm $78,512,000.00 $4,550,774.00 $3,425,656.00 $984,754.00 $3,258,745.00 $185,201.00 $245,747.00

~ 80 ~

Flood $3,925,600.00 $227,538.70 $171,282.80 $49,237.70 $162,937.25 $9,260.05 $12,287.35

Severe Storm $78,512,000.00 $4,550,774.00 $3,425,656.00 $984,754.00 $3,258,745.00 $185,201.00 $245,747.00

Tornadoes $78,512,000.00 $4,550,774.00 $3,425,656.00 $984,754.00 $3,258,745.00 $185,201.00 $245,747.00

Wildfire $78,512,000.00 $4,550,774.00 $3,425,656.00 $984,754.00 $3,258,745.00 $185,201.00 $245,747.00

Drought/Heat Waves $78,512,000.00 $4,550,774.00 $3,425,656.00 $984,754.00 $3,258,745.00 $185,201.00 $245,747.00

Winter Storms/Freezes $78,512,000.00 $4,550,774.00 $3,425,656.00 $984,754.00 $3,258,745.00 $185,201.00 $245,747.00

Levee/Dam Failures $78,512,000.00 $4,550,774.00 $3,425,656.00 $984,754.00 $3,258,745.00 $185,201.00 $245,747.00

Landslides $78,512,000.00 $4,550,774.00 $3,425,656.00 $984,754.00 $3,258,745.00 $185,201.00 $245,747.00

Earthquakes $78,512,000.00 $4,550,774.00 $3,425,656.00 $984,754.00 $3,258,745.00 $185,201.00 $245,747.00

Table 17 – Value of Future Property exposed to Hazards in Marengo County, Alabama (source HAZUS and

Marengo County Commission

viii. Analysis of Development Trends – Development Trends, particularly population

shifts and land use changes created by major economic development expansion

and infrastructure improvements of countywide significance, are important

considerations to effective mitigation planning. These trends must be continually

monitored and analyzed to keep abreast of changing vulnerabilities of

jurisdictions and the natural hazards. As growth and development patterns

change over time, the risk to property damage and lives also change. This section

examines the project growth trend and other impacts of countywide significance

that are expected to affect the location and extent of natural hazard vulnerability

overtime.

Marengo County is mostly rural with minor areas of development in Demopolis and

Linden. This area has experienced very little growth over the past 20 years. There has

been negative growth of industries and jobs. Marengo County's population

decreased 1.5% during the decade 1990‐2000. Only the Town of Thomaston showed

positive growth in population. Little population change in the county is forecast out

to year 2025. New residential developments in Marengo County are minimal.

However, growth and development could accelerate with the possible expansion of

industry along the Alabama Tombigbee River. U.S. 80 runs through the northern

extent of Marengo County and serves as a major east‐west transportation route. In

recent history, county initiatives have encouraged the growth of small businesses

within Marengo County.

ix. Risk Assessment by Jurisdiction – Table 16 lists each jurisdiction in Marengo

County ranked in terms of risk of natural hazards (1= highest risk, 1O=lowest risk).

All jurisdictions are equally at risk for tornadoes, severe storms, earthquakes,

wildfires, extreme cold, winter storms, drought and extreme heat. The

jurisdictions have varying degrees of risk pertaining to flooding and landslides.

~ 81 ~

Unincorporated Marengo County is most at risk for flooding and is the only

jurisdiction with special flood hazard areas mapped. The risk associated with each

of these hazards depends upon topography, geology and density of development.


Dayton Demopolis

Faunsdale

Linden Myrtlewood

Providence

Sweet Water

Thomaston

Hurricane/Tropical Storm

1 1 1 1 1 1 1 1 1

Flood 2 2 2 2 2 2 2 2 2 Severe Storm 3 3 3 3 3 3 3 3 3 Tornadoes 4 4 4 4 4 4 4 4 4 Wildfire 5 5 5 5 5 5 5 5 5 Drought/Heat Waves

6 6 6 6 6 6 6 6 6


7 7 7 7 7 7 7 7 7

Levee/Dam Failures

8 8 8 8 8 8 8 8 8

Landslides 9 9 9 9 9 9 9 9 9 Earthquakes 10 10 10 10 10 10 10 10 10

Table 18 Multi‐Jurisdictional Risk Assessment

o. What has changed in the Plan Update – the Risk Assessment used more available data available since 2010.

~ 82 ~

5. Mitigation Strategies

a. Purpose of Mitigation Goals Strategies ‐ These mitigation strategies provide a blueprint for

each participating jurisdiction to reduce the potential losses identified in the risk assessment

through a comprehensive plan of goals, objectives, and policies. It guides the communities

that have participated in its preparation through the Hazard Mitigation Planning Committee

(HMPC). These communities have adopted this plan and committed their resources to

achieve its goals.

In unincorporated Marengo County, the Marengo County Emergency Management Agency

was established via a resolution. The AEMA was established through Section 4 of the Alabama

Emergency Management Act of 1955 (Public Law 31‐9), Act 47, June 1955. Section 10,

Alabama Law, 1955 Act No. 47, directs the establishment of local organization for emergency

management in accordance with the state emergency management plan and programs. The

local organizations have the responsibility for coordinating the disaster preparedness,

mitigation, response and recovery efforts of local government. Under this legislation, each

county is required to have an emergency management organization, either individual or

jointly. Appropriate ordinance and/or resolution are required to establish each local

organization and must provide for the organization, powers, duties, divisions, services and

staff of the agency.

One of the most significant state enabling statutes related to hazard mitigation can be found

in the Title 11, Chapter 52, Planning, Zoning, and Subdivision of the Code of Alabama. Section

11‐52 et seq is the state planning enabling legislation for municipalities only. First enacted in

1935, the statue provides municipalities broad powers for comprehensive planning, capital

improvements programming and the regulation of land use, development, and conservation

of land areas through zoning ordinance and subdivision regulations. It permits municipalities

to create planning commission to oversee planning and land use controls, and Boards of

Adjustments to hear appeals. It is the basis for floodplain management regulations within all

municipalities and provides additional powers to control the location and types of

development activities that might be affected by other natural hazards, including landslides

and land subsidence.

Unincorporated areas of the counties in Alabama are severely restricted by the lack of a state

planning enabling statute. Only three counties statewide – Baldwin, Jefferson and parts of

Shelby County – are permitted to establish zoning ordinance by special acts adopted by Title

11, Chapter 24 of the Code of Alabama. County commissions are permitted to regulate the

subdivision of land and the construction of streets and utilities with the advice of an advisory

board. Municipalities may enforce subdivision regulations with its police jurisdiction which can

~ 83 ~

extend two miles beyond the municipal boundaries within unincorporated areas of a county.

Code of Alabama, Title 11, Chapter 19 Sections 11‐19‐1 through 11‐19‐24, entitled the

Comprehensive Land Use Management Act was enacted to prevent economic and human loss

in flood‐prone areas and permit counties to manage floodplain development within

unincorporated areas. This act provides the established county commissions the authority to

create a comprehensive land‐use management program floodplain management, in

accordance the NFIP criteria. As a result, unincorporated communities are eligible for flood

insurance through the NFIP. This program helps mitigate damages cause by floods by

controlling land use and development and improve the long‐range management of flood

prone areas. The statue authorizes each county commission to adopt floodplain management

ordinance for unincorporated areas. County Planning Commissions are granted broad

authority to control development in flood prone zone by adopting ordinances and Flood

Insurance Rate Maps that delineate the various flood zones controlled by the adopted

ordinances. Each county must appoint and administrator of the program and provide for a

Board of Adjustment to hear appeals to the ordinance requirements.

Marengo County has its subdivision authority and the authority to develop a Flood Hazard

Prevention ordinance. The municipal Jurisdictions in Marengo County (City of Demopolis,

Sweet Water, Linden, Providence, Thomaston, Dayton, Faunsdale, and Myrtlewood), have

authority to pass ordinances to implement the Hazard Mitigation Plans. However, are Dayton

and Providence have a very small population and therefore, look to the leadership and

authority leadership of the Marengo County EMA to assist with the implementation of the

strategies.

b. Identification and Analysis of Mitigation Measures ‐ The Hazard Mitigation Planning

Committee guided the preparation of these strategies. The Committee first reviewed the risk

assessment to determine the most critical hazard threats to each jurisdiction (see Chapter 4.

Risk Assessment). Next, the Committee and each jurisdiction reviewed existing authorities,

policies, programs, and resources through an exercise to rate the capabilities of each

jurisdiction to implement mitigation measures. These authorities and resources include local

legislation for subdivisions (for counties), ability to pass ordinances (municipalities), the

floodplain prevention ordinance, and resources for planning made available by the Alabama

Tombigbee Regional Planning Commission. Finally, the HMPC analyzed a broad range of

available mitigation measures. On this basis, the Committee evaluated the ability of each

jurisdiction to expand on and improve these tools. The Committee recommends those

measures that might best respond to the vulnerability concerns within the existing and

potential capabilities of each jurisdiction.

~ 84 ~

c. Types of Mitigation Activities – The planning approach presented here follows the six

categories of a comprehensive hazard mitigation program. These program categories have

been developed by FEMA for managing a successful mitigation program and are used here as

guidelines for identifying and selecting among alternative mitigation measures:

1. Prevention. Adopting and administering ordinances, regulations, and

programs that manage the development of land and buildings to minimize

risks of loss due to natural hazards.

2. Property Protection. Protecting structures and their occupants and

contents from the damaging effects of natural hazard occurrences,

including retrofitting existing structures to increase their resistance to

damage and exposure of occupants to harm; relocating vulnerable

structures and occupants from hazard locations; and conversion of

developed land to permanent open space through acquisition and

demolition of existing structures.

3. Public Education and Outreach. Educating and informing the public about

the risks of hazards and the techniques available to reduce threats to life

and property.

4. Natural Resources Protection. Preserving and restoring the beneficial

functions of the natural environment to promote sustainable community

development that balances the constraints of nature with the social and

economic demands of the community.

5. Emergency Services. Responding to and recovering from a natural hazard

disaster.

6. Structural Projects. Engineering structural modifications to natural

systems and public infrastructure to reduce the potentially damaging

impacts of a hazard on a community.

d. Existing Hazard Mitigation Activities –This plan expands on and improves existing mitigation

activities. To date, unincorporated Marengo County, City of Demopolis, City of Linden, Town

of Thomaston and Town of Providence are the only jurisdictions that participate in the

National Flood Insurance Program (NFIP) as shown in Table 17. The Town of Dayton,

Faunsdale, Myrtlewood, and Sweet Water are exempt as there is no/minimal flood zones

located within their municipal boundaries.

Number of Policies Total Inforce Coverage Total Inforce Premium

Demopolis 57 $ 7,699,300.00 $ 48,964.00

Linden 3 $ 215,000.00 $ 1,201.00

Marengo County 34 $ 4,251,800.00 $ 21,240.00

~ 85 ~

Providence 8 $ 1,159,000.00 $ 6,334.00

Total 102 $ 13,325,100.00 $ 77,739.00

The Marengo County Emergency Management Agency was established via a resolution of the

Marengo County Commission. The AEMA was established through Section 4 of the Alabama

Emergency Management Act of 1955 (Public Law 31‐9), Act 47, June 1955. Section 10,

Alabama Law, 1955 Act No. 47, directs the establishment of local organization for emergency

management in accordance with the state emergency management plan and programs. The

local organizations have the responsibility for coordinating the disaster preparedness,

mitigation, response and recovery efforts of local government. Under this legislation, each

county is required to have an emergency management organization, either individual or

jointly. Appropriate ordinance and/or resolution are required to establish each local

organization and must provide for the organization, powers, duties, divisions, services and

staff of the agency.

One of the most significant state enabling statutes related to hazard mitigation can be found

in the Title 11, Chapter 52, Planning, Zoning, and Subdivision of the Code of Alabama. Section

11‐52 et seq is the state planning enabling legislation for municipalities only. First enacted in

1935, the statue provides municipalities broad powers for comprehensive planning, capital

improvements programming and the regulation of land use, development, and conservation

of land areas through zoning ordinance and subdivision regulations. It permits municipalities

to create planning commission to oversee planning and land use controls, and Boards of

Adjustments to hear appeals. It is the basis for floodplain management regulations within all

municipalities and provides additional powers to control the location and types of

development activities that might be affected by other natural hazards, including landslides

and land subsidence.

Unincorporated areas of the counties in Alabama are severely restricted by the lack of a state

planning enabling statute. Only three counties statewide – Baldwin, Jefferson, Lee and parts

of Shelby County – are permitted to establish zoning ordinance by special acts adopted by

Title 11, Chapter 24 of the Code of Alabama. County commissions are permitted to regulate

the subdivision of land and the construction of streets and utilities with the advice of an

advisory board. Municipalities may enforce subdivision regulations with its police jurisdiction

which can extend two miles beyond the municipal boundaries within unincorporated areas of

a county. Code of Alabama, Title 11, Chapter 19 Sections 11‐19‐1 through 11‐19‐24, entitled

the Comprehensive Land Use Management Act was enacted to prevent economic and human

loss in flood‐prone areas and permit counties to manage floodplain development within

unincorporated areas. This act provides the established county commissions the authority to

create a comprehensive land‐use management program floodplain management, in

accordance the NFIP criteria. As a result, unincorporated communities are eligible for flood

~ 86 ~

insurance through the NFIP. This program helps mitigate damages cause by floods by

controlling land use and development and improve the long‐range management of flood

prone areas. The statue authorizes each county commission to adopt floodplain management

ordinance for unincorporated areas. County Planning Commissions are granted broad

authority to control development in flood prone zone by adopting ordinances and Flood

Insurance Rate Maps that delineate the various flood zones controlled by the adopted

ordinances. Each county must appoint and administrator of the program and provide for a

Board of Adjustment to hear appeals to the ordinance requirements.

e. Mitigation Issues and Opportunities – The policies of this plan respond to the mitigation issues

and opportunities presented in this section. These are derived from the findings of the risk

assessment and capability assessment and discussions with members of the HMPC.

Prevention

Tornadoes, severe storms and hurricanes are the most threatening hazards to Marengo

County communities.

No Marengo County municipalities practice comprehensive planning, except for

Myrtlewood and Demopolis.

The county expects a slight population increase of 1.1% out to year 2025.

A large number of areas depicted on the Flood Insurance Rate Maps are designated

"Approximate" zones where no detailed studies and flood elevation data exist.

Unincorporated Marengo County, City of Demopolis, City of Linden, Town of Providence,

and Town of Thomaston are the only jurisdictions that participate in the NFIP.

The municipalities of Dayton, Faunsdale, Myrtlewood, Sweet Water and are exempt

because they don’t have any significant 100‐year floodplain located with their municipal

limits.

Property Protection

Standard homeowner and business insurance policies do not cover flood damages.

Many older homes and buildings located in flood plains are not protected from flooding.

Public Education and Outreach

Real estate agents and property owners have a continuing need for flood map

information.

The public is generally unaware of risks associated with hazards and the mitigation

measures available for property protection.

Local libraries are available to serve as repositories for information on hazards and

methods of protection.

~ 87 ~

Technical assistance materials are available through FEMA to assist property owners on

alternative property protection measures.

School environmental education programs provide excellent opportunities for public

education on hazard mitigation alternatives.

A multitude of public outreach opportunities and resources are available.

Public information activities are among the least expensive mitigation measures but often

the most effective.

Natural Resources Protection

Stream and river banks and riparian zones help manage floods and filter runoff.

Accidental or intentional dumping of household and commercial, such as household

garbage, tires, shopping carts, and landscape debris, can obstruct flows.

Storm‐damaged trees ‐ resulting from hurricanes, tornadoes, severe thunderstorms, and

wind storms‐ can clog streets and access during periods of disaster response, obstruct the

natural discharge of flood waters, disrupt utility services, increase debris removal, damage

property, and increase disaster recovery costs.

Emergency Services

1. Weather radios in homes and businesses provide inexpensive means for advance warning.

2. Further, an extensive outdoor siren system should be installed in Marengo County due the

high frequency and intensity of tornadoes.

Structural Projects

1. Regular maintenance of streams and drainage ways is critical to their effective operation

for storm water discharge.

f. Mitigation Policies Plan

This section presents the long‐term, comprehensive plan for mitigation of natural hazards.

Each of these mitigation actions will be carried out by the Marengo County Emergency

Management in coordination with local, state, federal, and other agencies. Priority mitigation

projects carried over into the action program should only be implemented if the benefits are

maximized and outweigh the associated costs of the proposed projects. The goals of this

mitigation policies plan apply to all jurisdictions within the county. The communities' long‐

range vision for disaster resistance and the mission of the HMPC are restated here for

reference.

Over the last 5 years, Marengo County has had success in implementing actions form the 2010

plan. Some of the actions have been completed; however most are processes and have not

yet been completed. Also, some mitigation measures have been deleted from the plan as they

~ 88 ~

were determined by the Hazard Mitigation Planning Committee to be no longer relevant or

current or have been completed.

The Marengo County Hazard Mitigation Planning Committee (HMPC) used recently FEMA‐

approved plans from adjacent Monroe County and Choctaw County in the development of its

mitigation strategies. The HMPC used these strategies as they felt they were most‐recently

approved by FEMA. Further, the mitigation strategies that were adopted are more robust and

comprehensive than the 2010 plan mitigation strategies. Marengo County is rural county

located in southwest Alabama and is very comparable to size, population and land use as

Monroe and Choctaw Counties. As a result, mitigation strategies were shared.

Completed Mitigation Strategies from 2010 Plan

None

Mitigation Strategies deleted from 2010 Plan:

There were no mitigation strategies deleted from the 2010 Approved Plan. Updated

strategies were re‐ordered by project objective. The HMPC feels these updated strategies

will better serve the needs of the community. See table below demonstrating and

examples of how mitigation strategies updated from the 2010 to 2015 Plan.

Example Mitigation Strategy in 2010 Plan

Example Mitigation Strategy in 2015 Plan

Continue to clear debris form roads and drainage ways (page 124 from 2010 Plan)

Mitigation Strategy 35: Continue to clear debris from roads and drainage ways

Continue to Enforce the County’s Flood Damage Prevention Ordinance (Page 124 from the 2010 Plan)

Mitigation Strategy 2: Effectively administer and enforce local floodplain management regulations

Improve drainage infrastructure throughout the County (Page 125 from the 2010 Plan)

Mitigation Strategy 34: Implement drainage improvement in watersheds throughout Marengo County

The following tables are a listing of new and/or continued mitigation measures adopted

for each jurisdiction. Please note, all mitigations strategies from the 2010 plan have been

merged into the list of strategies for the 2015 Plan. The HMPC ranked each Hazard

Measures looking weighing community need, project feasibility, and availability of

matching funds, if required. The measures were ranked with High, Low, and Medium

Priority.

~ 89 ~

i. Mitigation Measures for Unincorporated Marengo County (New and Continued from 2010 Plan)

Mitigation Measure Number

Program Objective

Hazards Addressed

Mitigation Measure Funding Resources

Priority

Responsible Department

Existing Potential Resources

Timeframe

Goal: Maintain a comprehensive database of hazard locations, socio economic data, infrastructure, and critical facilities inventories

1 Prevention All Maintain a centralized countywide natural hazards and risk assessment database in GIS that is accessible to all personnel including flood zones, geohazards, major drainage structures, dams/levees; tornado tracks,

HMGP grants, General Fund, other grant funding

Medium Marengo County EMA

Virtual Alabama, GIS Data, HMGP

5 years

Goal: Manage the development of land and buildings to minimize the risks of loss due to natural hazards

2 Prevention Flood Effectively administer and enforce local floodplain management regulations


High Marengo County EMA

FEMA flood maps, HMGP, ADECA

2 years

3 Prevention Flood Train local floodplain managers through programs offered at the State and Federal level.



HMGP and ADECA

1 year

4 Prevention All The participating community has

HMGP grants, General Fund,


HMGP and ADECA

Ongoing

~ 90 ~

adopted and enforces floodplain management ordinances that meet or exceed the minimum requirements of the NFIP. These requirements are intended to prevent loss of life and property and reduce taxpayer costs for disaster relief, as well as minimize economic and social hardships that result from flooding.

other grant funding

and

5 Prevention All Maintain a library of technical assistance and guidance materials for local floodplain managers and use Marengo County EMA website for implementation



HMGP and ADECA

1 year

6 Prevention All Promote adoption of uniform flood hazard prevention ordinance among all of the NFIP



HMGP and ADECA

1 year

~ 91 ~

communities in Marengo County.

7 Prevention All Acquire GIS software for marinating risk assessment data



HMGP and ADECA

5 years

8 Prevention All Prepare and adopt a comprehensive plan


Low Marengo County EMA

HMGP and ADECA

10 years

9 Prevention All Require the construction of Safe Rooms in new public buildings, such as new schools, libraries, community centers and other public buildings when feasible


High All jurisdictions

HMGP 1 year

10 Prevention All Construct free‐standing public Safe Rooms in existing vulnerable locations



HMGP ADECA

5 years

11 Prevention All Apply for funding to update/revise mitigation plan when needed


Medium All jurisdictions

HMGP 5 years

12 Prevention All Conduct special studies as needed to identify hazard risks and mitigation



HMGP 10 years

~ 92 ~

measures

Goal: Protect structures and their occupants and contents from damaging effects of natural hazards

13 Property Protection

All Encourage retrofits of older homes constructed before the enactment of floodplain regulations



HMGP 2 years


All Maintain insurance riders on existing properties



HMGP Ongoing


All Provide back‐up power for critical facilities and fire stations



HMGP 2 years


All Promote good construction practices and proper code enforcement to eliminate most structural problems during natural hazard events



HMGP 2 years


All Encourage the construction of safe rooms within new public buildings, such as new schools, libraries, community centers, and other



HMGP 2 years

~ 93 ~

public buildings where feasible.


All Retrofit public schools and critical facilities with community Safe Rooms.



HMGP 2 years


All Increase access to Flood Insurance Rate Maps.



HMGP Completed


All Promote the purchase of flood insurance coverage by property owners and renters in high‐risk flooding areas.



HMGP Ongoing


All Continue to send law enforcement and fire personnel to emergency response training


Low All jurisdictions

HMGP Ongoing


Fire Install water infrastructure and Fire hydrants in rural areas



HMGP 5 years


All Encourage the construction of safe rooms in new and existing construction.



HMGP 5 years

Goal: Education and inform the public about the risk of hazards and the techniques available to reduce threats to life and property.

~ 94 ~

24 Public Education and Outreach

All Maintain appropriate media relationships to ensure the public is informed of hazard threats and means to mitigate property damages and loss of life.



HMGP Ongoing


All Publicize the availability of FIRM information to real estate agents, builders, developers, and homeowners through local trade publications and newspaper announcements.



HMGP 1 year


All Conduct regular public meetings of hazards and mitigation measures

HMGP grants, General Fund, other grant


HMGP 1 year

Goal: Preserve and restore the beneficial functions of natural environment to promote sustainable community development that balances the constraints of nature with the social and economic demands of the community.

27 Natural Resource Protection

All Maintain a healthy forest that can help mitigation the damaging impacts of flooding, erosion, landslides, and wild



HMGP 5 years

~ 95 ~

fires within urban and rural areas


All Seek technical assistance through the Alabama Cooperative Extension System and/or the Alabama Forestry Commission with Best Management Practices (BMPs) for channel and drainage system maintenance.



HMGP 10 years


All Enact and enforce dumping regulations



HMGP 5 years


All Enact and enforce erosion and sedimentation control regulations



HMGP 1 year


All Seek technical assistance through the Alabama Cooperative Extension System with Best Management Practices (BMP) for channel and drainage system maintenance.



HMGP 10 years

32 Natural Resource

All Encourage land acquisition programs



HMGP 5 years

~ 96 ~

Protection to acquire habitat throughout Marengo County

other grant

Goal: Apply engineered structural modifications to natural systems and public infrastructure to reduce potentially damaging impacts of hazards, where feasible, cost effective, and environmentally suitable

33 Structural Projects

All Improve maintenance programs for streams and drainage ways.


High

All jurisdictions

HMGP 3 years


All Implement drainage improvement in watersheds throughout Marengo County



HMGP 3 years


All Continue to clear debris from roads and drainage ways



HMGP 10 years


All Continue to improve and maintain county road system



HMGP 5 years


All Prepare and implement standard operation procedures for drainage system maintenance



HMGP 5 years

Goal: Improve the Efficiency, timing, and effectiveness of response and recovery for natural hazard disasters

38 Emergency All Improve public HMGP grants, High All HMGP 1 year

~ 97 ~

Services warning systems General Fund, other grant funding

jurisdictions

39 Emergency Services

All Improve public access to weather alerts



HMGP 1 year


All Use social media to provide information about the public about dangerous weather



HMGP 2 years


All Purchase emergency generators for post‐disaster mitigation as needed. In particular for the Volunteer Fire Departments, schools, critical facilities Marengo County Courthouse, and all water and sewer facilities throughout Marengo County.



HMGP 5 years


All

Install an automated weather monitoring system that transmit data to the County EMA and the NWS, including all‐weather stations, precipitation



HMGP 10 years

~ 98 ~

gauges, wind gauges, and temperature gauges


All Promote the use of weather radios in households and businesses. Purchase radios and distribute to the public.



HMGP 3 years


All Upgrade Critical Communication Infrastructure



HMGP 5 years


All Continue to offer shelter to individuals and families affected by natural hazards. This includes opening public building buildings during times of extreme heat.

Local funding only


HMGP 10 years


All Contact utilities in the event of natural hazard so they can inspect their infrastructure for damage

Local funding only


HGMP 10 years


All Encourage jurisdictions to commit matches for grants dealing with

Local funding only


HMGP 10 years

~ 99 ~

mitigation


All See weatherization funding for low income residents

CDBG Medium All jurisdictions

HMGP 5 years


All Continue to maintain an inventory of critical facilities and contact information

ALL Medium All jurisdictions

HMGP 5 years


ALL Research procedures for keeping historical storm data with location, magnitude, and loss value for each event.

All Low All jurisdictions

HMGP

~ 100 ~

ii. Town of Dayton Mitigation Measures (New and Continued from 2010 Plan)


Program Objective

Hazards Addressed


Priority



Timeframe






5 years


2 Prevention Flood Join the National Flood Insurance Program

Local funds Low Town of Dayton


10 years




HMGP and ADECA

1 year

4 Prevention All N/A Dayton is exempt. HMGP grants, General Fund,


HMGP and ADECA

Ongoing

~ 101 ~

other grant funding




HMGP and ADECA

1 year

6 Prevention All Promote adoption of uniform flood hazard prevention ordinance among all of the NFIP communities in Marengo County.



HMGP and ADECA

1 year




HMGP and ADECA

5 years




HMGP and ADECA

10 years

9 Prevention All Require the construction of Safe Rooms in new public buildings, such as new schools, libraries, community centers and other public



HMGP 1 year

~ 102 ~

buildings when feasible




HMGP ADECA

5 years




HMGP 5 years

12 Prevention All Conduct special studies as needed to identify hazard risks and mitigation measures



HMGP 10 years






HMGP 2 years





HMGP Ongoing





HMGP 2 years

16 Property All Promote good HMGP grants, Medium All HMGP 2 years

~ 103 ~

Protection construction practices and proper code enforcement to eliminate most structural problems during natural hazard events

General Fund, other grant funding

jurisdictions


All Encourage the construction of safe rooms within new public buildings, such as new schools, libraries, community centers, and other public buildings where feasible.



HMGP 2 years


All Retrofit public schools with community Safe Rooms.



HMGP 2 years





HMGP Completed





HMGP Ongoing

21 Property All Continue to send law HMGP grants, Low All HMGP Ongoing

~ 104 ~

Protection enforcement and fire personnel to emergency response training


jurisdictions





HMGP 5 years





HMGP 5 years






HMGP Ongoing


All Publicize the availability of FIRM information to real estate agents, builders, developers, and homeowners through local trade publications and newspaper



HMGP 1 year

~ 105 ~

announcements.





HMGP 1 year



All Maintain a healthy forest that can help mitigation the damaging impacts of flooding, erosion, landslides, and wild fires within urban and rural areas



HMGP 5 years





HMGP 10 years





HMGP 5 years

~ 106 ~





HMGP 1 year


All Seek technical assistance through hthe Alabama Cooperative Extension System with Best Management Practices (BMP) for channel and drainage system maintenance.



HMGP 10 years


All Encourage land acquisition programs to acquire habitat throughout Marengo County



HMGP 5 years



All Improve maintenance programs for streams and drainage ways


High

All jurisdictions

HMGP 3 years





HMGP 3 years

35 Structural All Continue to clear HMGP grants, High All HMGP 10 years

~ 107 ~

Projects debris from roads and drainage ways


jurisdictions





HMGP 5 years





HMGP 5 years



All Improve public warning systems



HMGP 1 year





HMGP 1 year





HMGP 2 years


All Purchase emergency generators for post‐disaster mitigation as needed. In particular



HMGP 5 years

~ 108 ~

for the Volunteer Fire Departments, Marengo County Courthouse, and all water and sewer facilities throughout Marengo County.


All Install an automated weather monitoring system that transmit data to the County EMA and the NWS, including all‐weather stations, precipitation gauges, wind gauges, and temperature gauges



HMGP 10 years


All Promote the use of weather radios in households and businesses.



HMGP 3 years

44 Emergency Services All




HMGP 5 years

~ 109 ~

iii. City of Demopolis Mitigation Measures (New and Continued from 2010 Plan)


Program Objective

Hazards Addressed


Priority



Timeframe






5 years


2 Prevention Flood Effectively administer and enforce local floodplain management, zoning ordinances, subdivision regulations, and




2 years

~ 110 ~

International Building Code regulations




HMGP and ADECA

1 year

4 Prevention All The participating community has adopted and enforces floodplain management ordinances that meet or exceed the minimum requirements of the NFIP. These requirements are intended to prevent loss of life and property and reduce taxpayer costs for disaster relief, as well as minimize economic and social hardships that result from flooding.



HMGP and ADECA

Ongoing

5 Prevention All Maintain a library of technical assistance and guidance



HMGP and ADECA

1 year

~ 111 ~

materials for local floodplain managers and use Marengo County EMA website for implementation

funding




HMGP and ADECA

1 year




HMGP and ADECA

5 years

8 Prevention All Update outdated comprehensive plan form early 2000s



HMGP and ADECA

10 years




HMGP 1 year

10 Prevention All Construct free‐standing public Safe Rooms in existing



HMGP ADECA

5 years

~ 112 ~

vulnerable locations funding




HMGP 5 years




HMGP 10 years






HMGP 2 years





HMGP Ongoing





HMGP 2 years


All Promote good construction practices and proper code enforcement to eliminate most structural problems



HMGP 2 years

~ 113 ~

during natural hazard events





HMGP 2 years





HMGP 2 years





HMGP Completed





HMGP Ongoing





HMGP Ongoing

22 Property Fire Install water HMGP grants, High All HMGP 5 years

~ 114 ~

Protection infrastructure and Fire hydrants in rural areas


jurisdictions





HMGP 5 years





HMGP Ongoing





HMGP 1 year





HMGP 1 year

Goal: Preserve and restore the beneficial functions of natural environment to promote sustainable community development that balances the constraints of

~ 115 ~

nature with the social and economic demands of the community.





HMGP 5 years





HMGP 10 years





HMGP 5 years





HMGP 1 year


All Seek technical assistance through hthe Alabama



HMGP 10 years

~ 116 ~

Cooperative Extension System with Best Management Practices (BMP) for channel and drainage system maintenance.

funding





HMGP 5 years



All Improve maintenance programs for streams and drainage ways. These areas include but are not limited to the drainage Area along Whitfield Canal, drainage in the West portion of the City, and drainage areas in the southeast area of the City.


High

All jurisdictions

HMGP 3 years


All Implement drainage improvement in watersheds throughout Demopolis.



HMGP 3 years

~ 117 ~





HMGP 10 years





HMGP 5 years





HMGP 5 years






HMGP 1 year





HMGP 1 year





HMGP 2 years


All Purchase emergency generators for post‐disaster mitigation as



HMGP 5 years

~ 118 ~

needed. In particular for the Volunteer Fire Departments, Marengo County Courthouse, and all water and sewer facilities throughout Marengo County.

funding





HMGP 10 years





HMGP 3 years





HMGP 5 years

~ 119 ~

iv. Town of Faunsdale Mitigation Measures (New and Continued from 2010 Plan)


Program Objective

Hazards Addressed


Priority



Timeframe






2 years


2 Prevention Flood Provide information to the public about flooding safety.




Ongoing




HMGP and ADECA

1 year

4 Prevention All N/A exempt HMGP grants, General Fund, other grant


HMGP and ADECA

1 year

~ 120 ~

funding




HMGP and ADECA

5 years




HMGP and ADECA

10 years




HMGP and ADECA

1 year




HMGP and ADECA

5 years

9 Prevention All Require the construction of Safe Rooms in new public buildings, such as new schools, libraries, community centers and other public buildings when



HMGP 5 years

~ 121 ~

feasible




HMGP ADECA

10 years




HMGP




HMGP 2 years






HMGP 2 years





HMGP 2 years





HMGP 2 years


All Promote good construction practices



HMGP 2 years

~ 122 ~

and proper code enforcement to eliminate most structural problems during natural hazard events

other grant funding





HMGP Completed





HMGP Ongoing





HMGP Ongoing





HMGP 5 years


All Continue to send law enforcement



HMGP 5 years

~ 123 ~

and fire personnel to emergency response training

other grant funding





HMGP





HMGP






HMGP 1 year





HMGP

~ 124 ~





HMGP 5 years






HMGP 5 years





HMGP 1 year





HMGP 10 years

30 Natural All Enact and enforce HMGP grants, Low All HMGP 5 years

~ 125 ~

Resource Protection

erosion and sedimentation control regulations


jurisdictions





HMGP


All Encourage land acquisition programs to acquire habitat throughout the Town of Faunsdale.



HMGP





High

All jurisdictions

HMGP 10 years





HMGP 5 years


All Continue to clear debris from roads and



HMGP 5 years

~ 126 ~

drainage ways other grant funding





HMGP





HMGP 1 year






HMGP 2 years





HMGP 5 years





HMGP 10 years


All Purchase emergency generators for post‐disaster mitigation as needed. In particular for the Volunteer Fire



HMGP 3 years

~ 127 ~

Departments, Marengo County Courthouse, and all water and sewer facilities throughout Marengo County.


All

Install an automated weather monitoring system that transmit data to the County EMA and the NWS, including all‐weather stations, precipitation gauges, wind gauges, and temperature gauges



HMGP 5 years





HMGP Ongoing





HMGP Ongoing

~ 128 ~

v. City of Linden (New and Continued from 2010 Plan)


Program Objective

Hazards Addressed


Priority



Timeframe






5 years


2 Prevention Flood Effectively administer and enforce local floodplain management regulations along with enforcement of International Building Codes, zoning ordinance and subdivision regulations.




2 years

3 Prevention Flood Train local floodplain HMGP grants, High Marengo HMGP and 1 year

~ 129 ~

managers through programs offered at the State and Federal level.


County EMA ADECA

4 Prevention All The participating community has adopted and enforces floodplain management ordinances that meet or exceed the minimum requirements of the NFIP. These requirements are intended to prevent loss of life and property and reduce taxpayer costs for disaster relief, as well as minimize economic and social hardships that result from flooding.



HMGP and ADECA

Ongoing

5 Prevention All Maintain a library of technical assistance and guidance materials for local floodplain managers and use Marengo



HMGP and ADECA

1 year

~ 130 ~

County EMA website for implementation

6 Prevention All Promote adoption of uniform flood hazard prevention ordinance among all of the NFIP communities in the City of Linden.



HMGP and ADECA

1 year




HMGP and ADECA

5 years




HMGP and ADECA

10 years

9 Prevention All

Require the construction of Safe Rooms in new public buildings, such as new schools, libraries, community centers and other public buildings when feasible



HMGP 1 year




HMGP ADECA

5 years

~ 131 ~




HMGP 5 years




HMGP 10 years






HMGP 2 years





HMGP Ongoing





HMGP 2 years


All Promote good construction practices and proper code enforcement to eliminate most structural problems during natural hazard



HMGP 2 years

~ 132 ~

events





HMGP 2 years





HMGP 2 years





HMGP Completed





HMGP Ongoing





HMGP Ongoing


Fire Install water infrastructure and Fire



HMGP 5 years

~ 133 ~

hydrants in rural areas other grant funding





HMGP 5 years






HMGP Ongoing





HMGP 1 year





HMGP 1 year

Goal: Preserve and restore the beneficial functions of natural environment to

~ 134 ~

promote sustainable community development that balances the constraints of nature with the social and economic demands of the community.





HMGP 5 years





HMGP 10 years





HMGP 5 years





HMGP 1 year

31 Natural Resource

All Seek technical assistance through



HMGP 10 years

~ 135 ~

Protection hthe Alabama Cooperative Extension System with Best Management Practices (BMP) for channel and drainage system maintenance.

other grant funding





HMGP 5 years



All Improve maintenance programs for streams and drainage ways.


High

All jurisdictions

HMGP 3 years


All Implement drainage improvement in watersheds throughout the City of Linden including but not limited to Drainage in the MLK area, Drainage at South Maine Street and 5th Avenue, and drainage to address flash flooding.



HMGP 3 years

~ 136 ~





HMGP 10 years





HMGP 5 years





HMGP 5 years






HMGP 1 year





HMGP 1 year





HMGP 2 years


All Purchase emergency generators for post‐disaster mitigation as



HMGP 5 years

~ 137 ~

needed. In particular for the Volunteer Fire Departments, Marengo County Courthouse, Police Stations, and all water and sewer facilities throughout Marengo County.

funding





HMGP 10 years





HMGP 3 years





HMGP 5 years

~ 138 ~

vi. Town of Myrtlewood Mitigation Measures (New and Continued from 2010 Plan)


Program Objective

Hazards Addressed


Priority



Timeframe






Ongoing






Ongoing




HMGP and ADECA

Ongoing

4 Prevention All The participating community has adopted



HMGP and ADECA

Ongoing

~ 139 ~

and enforces floodplain management ordinances that meet or exceed the minimum requirements of the NFIP. These requirements are intended to prevent loss of life and property and reduce taxpayer costs for disaster relief, as well as minimize economic and social hardships that result from flooding.

funding




HMGP and ADECA

Ongoing

6 Prevention All Promote adoption of uniform flood hazard prevention ordinance among all of the NFIP communities in



HMGP and ADECA

Ongoing

~ 140 ~

Marengo County.




HMGP and ADECA

Ongoing




HMGP and ADECA

Ongoing




HMGP Ongoing




HMGP ADECA

Ongoing




HMGP Ongoing




HMGP Ongoing

~ 141 ~






HMGP Ongoing





HMGP Ongoing





HMGP Ongoing





HMGP Ongoing


All Encourage the construction of safe rooms within new public buildings, such as new schools, libraries, community centers, and other public buildings where



HMGP Ongoing

~ 142 ~

feasible.





HMGP Ongoing





HMGP Ongoing





HMGP Ongoing





HMGP Ongoing





HMGP Ongoing





HMGP Ongoing


Program Objective

Hazards Addressed


Priority All jurisdictions

HMGP Ongoing

~ 143 ~






HMGP Ongoing





HMGP Ongoing





HMGP Ongoing



All Maintain a healthy forest that can help mitigation the damaging impacts of



HMGP Ongoing

~ 144 ~

flooding, erosion, landslides, and wild fires within urban and rural areas





HMGP Ongoing





HMGP Ongoing





HMGP Ongoing


All Seek technical assistance through hthe Alabama Cooperative Extension System with Best Management Practices (BMP) for channel and drainage



HMGP Ongoing

~ 145 ~

system maintenance.





HMGP Ongoing





High

All jurisdictions

HMGP Ongoing





HMGP Ongoing





HMGP Ongoing





HMGP Ongoing





HMGP Ongoing

~ 146 ~






HMGP Ongoing





HMGP Ongoing





HMGP Ongoing


All Purchase emergency generators for post‐disaster mitigation as needed. In particular for the Volunteer Fire Departments, Marengo County Courthouse, and all water and sewer facilities throughout Marengo County.



HMGP Ongoing


All Install an automated weather monitoring system that transmit data to the County EMA and the NWS,



HMGP Ongoing

~ 147 ~

including all‐weather stations, precipitation gauges, wind gauges, and temperature gauges





HMGP Ongoing





HMGP Ongoing

~ 148 ~

vii. Town of Providence Mitigation Measures (New and Continued from 2010)


Program Objective

Hazards Addressed


Priority



Timeframe






5 years


2 Prevention Flood Continue participation in the National Flood Insurance Program




2 years




HMGP and ADECA

1 year




HMGP and ADECA

Ongoing

~ 149 ~


funding




HMGP and ADECA

1 year




HMGP and ADECA

1 year

~ 150 ~

Marengo County.




HMGP and ADECA

5 years




HMGP and ADECA

10 years




HMGP 1 year




HMGP ADECA

5 years




HMGP 5 years




HMGP 10 years

~ 151 ~






HMGP 2 years





HMGP Ongoing





HMGP 2 years





HMGP 2 years





HMGP 2 years

~ 152 ~

feasible.





HMGP 2 years





HMGP Completed





HMGP Ongoing





HMGP Ongoing





HMGP 5 years





HMGP 5 years


24 Public All Maintain appropriate HMGP grants, Medium All HMGP Ongoing

~ 153 ~

Education and Outreach

media relationships to ensure the public is informed of hazard threats and means to mitigate property damages and loss of life.


jurisdictions





HMGP 1 year





HMGP 1 year



All Maintain a healthy forest that can help mitigation the damaging impacts of flooding, erosion, landslides, and wild fires within urban and



HMGP 5 years

~ 154 ~

rural areas





HMGP 10 years





HMGP 5 years





HMGP 1 year





HMGP 10 years

32 Natural Resource




HMGP 5 years

~ 155 ~

Protection to acquire habitat throughout Marengo County

other grant





High

All jurisdictions

HMGP 3 years





HMGP 3 years





HMGP 10 years





HMGP 5 years





HMGP 5 years



~ 156 ~


jurisdictions





HMGP 1 year





HMGP 2 years





HMGP 5 years


All

Install an automated weather monitoring system that transmit data to the County EMA and the NWS, including all‐weather stations, precipitation gauges, wind gauges,



HMGP 10 years

~ 157 ~

and temperature gauges





HMGP 3 years





HMGP 5 years

~ 158 ~

viii. Town of Sweet Water Mitigation Measures (New and Continued from 2010)


Program Objective

Hazards Addressed


Priority



Timeframe






5 years






2 years




HMGP and ADECA

1 year




HMGP and ADECA

Ongoing

~ 159 ~


funding




HMGP and ADECA

1 year




HMGP and ADECA

1 year

~ 160 ~

Marengo County.




HMGP and ADECA

5 years




HMGP and ADECA

10 years

9 Prevention All




HMGP 1 year




HMGP ADECA

5 years




HMGP 5 years




HMGP 10 years

~ 161 ~






HMGP 2 years





HMGP Ongoing





HMGP 2 years





HMGP 2 years





HMGP 2 years

~ 162 ~

feasible.





HMGP 2 years





HMGP Completed





HMGP Ongoing





HMGP Ongoing





HMGP 5 years





HMGP 5 years


24 Public All Maintain appropriate HMGP grants, Medium All HMGP Ongoing

~ 163 ~

Education and Outreach

media relationships to ensure the public is informed of hazard threats and means to mitigate property damages and loss of life.


jurisdictions





HMGP 1 year





HMGP 1 year



All Maintain a healthy forest that can help mitigation the damaging impacts of flooding, erosion, landslides, and wild fires within urban and



HMGP 5 years

~ 164 ~

rural areas





HMGP 10 years





HMGP 5 years





HMGP 1 year





HMGP 10 years

32 Natural Resource




HMGP 5 years

~ 165 ~

Protection to acquire habitat throughout the Town of Sweet Water

other grant





High

All jurisdictions

HMGP 3 years





HMGP 3 years





HMGP 10 years





HMGP 5 years





HMGP 5 years



~ 166 ~


jurisdictions





HMGP 1 year





HMGP 2 years





HMGP 5 years


All

Install an automated weather monitoring system that transmit data to the County EMA and the NWS, including all‐weather stations, precipitation gauges, wind gauges,



HMGP 10 years

~ 167 ~

and temperature gauges





HMGP 3 years





HMGP

~ 168 ~

Town of Thomaston Mitigation Measures (New and Continued from 2010)


Program Objective

Hazards Addressed


Priority



Timeframe






5 years


2 Prevention Flood Effectively administer and enforce local floodplain management regulations




2 years




HMGP and ADECA

1 year

4 Prevention All The participating community has



HMGP and ADECA

Ongoing

~ 169 ~

adopted and enforces floodplain management ordinances that meet or exceed the minimum requirements of the NFIP. These requirements are intended to prevent loss of life and property and reduce taxpayer costs for disaster relief, as well as minimize economic and social hardships that result from flooding.

other grant funding




HMGP and ADECA

1 year

6 Prevention All Promote adoption of uniform flood hazard prevention ordinance among all of the NFIP



HMGP and ADECA

1 year

~ 170 ~

communities in Marengo County.




HMGP and ADECA

5 years




HMGP and ADECA

10 years

9 Prevention All




HMGP 1 year




HMGP ADECA

5 years




HMGP 5 years

12 Prevention All Conduct special studies as needed to identify hazard risks and mitigation



HMGP 10 years

~ 171 ~

measures






HMGP 2 years





HMGP Ongoing





HMGP 2 years





HMGP 2 years


All Encourage the construction of safe rooms within new public buildings, such as new schools, libraries, community centers, and other



HMGP 2 years

~ 172 ~

public buildings where feasible.





HMGP 2 years





HMGP Completed





HMGP Ongoing





HMGP Ongoing





HMGP 5 years





HMGP 5 years


~ 173 ~





HMGP Ongoing





HMGP 1 year





HMGP 1 year



All Maintain a healthy forest that can help mitigation the damaging impacts of flooding, erosion, landslides, and wild



HMGP 5 years

~ 174 ~

fires within urban and rural areas





HMGP 10 years





HMGP 5 years





HMGP 1 year





HMGP 10 years

32 Natural All Encourage land HMGP grants, High All HMGP 5 years

~ 175 ~

Resource Protection

acquisition programs to acquire habitat throughout Marengo County

General Fund, other grant

jurisdictions





High

All jurisdictions

HMGP 3 years





HMGP 3 years





HMGP 10 years





HMGP 5 years





HMGP 5 years


~ 176 ~





HMGP 1 year





HMGP 1 year





HMGP 2 years





HMGP 5 years


All

Install an automated weather monitoring system that transmit data to the County EMA and the NWS, including all‐weather stations, precipitation



HMGP 10 years

~ 177 ~

gauges, wind gauges, and temperature gauges





HMGP 3 years





HMGP 5 years

~ 178 ~

6. Plan Maintenance – The Marengo County Emergency Management Agency is

responsible for maintaining the local Hazard Mitigation Plan, including all

monitoring, evaluation, and updating activities. As part of this plan update

process, the MC EMA reviewed the status detailed in the 2010 Plan for

monitoring, evaluating, and updating the plan and compared it to the plan

maintenance activities that took place since plan adoption in 2010.

Regular plan monitoring will be achieved through Marengo County EMA’s

efforts to track mitigation activities. The annual review will take place in June

of each year and will be initiated by the Marengo County EMA Director. The

Director will e‐mail a survey to each member of the Hazard Mitigation

Planning Committee. The survey will request input on the following items:

1. Changes in the level or risk to the county and its citizens

2. Changes in laws, policies, or regulations at the local or state level

3. Changes in the state or local agencies or their procedures that will

affect how mitigation programs or funds are administered

4. Significant changes in funding sources or capabilities

5. Changes in the composition of Hazard Mitigation Planning Committee

6. Progress on mitigation actions and new mitigation actions

7. Major changes to the multi‐jurisdictional hazard mitigation plan.

The Marengo County Natural Hazards Mitigation Plan will be updated every

five years as required by FEMA. At the beginning of the fifth year, the EMA

director will begin making arrangements for the plan’s update. The process

of updating the plan will be undertaken in the same way as the development

of the plan. The public participation component will also be included. At least

two advertised public meetings will be held to involve the public in the

update process. Drafts of the updated plan will also be available for public

comment. Within the five‐year cycle, a jurisdiction may request to update

the plan. If the jurisdiction would like to update only a jurisdiction specific

portion, such as mitigation goals/strategies it may do so. Any jurisdiction

MUST contact the EMA director in order to ensure he has an amended copy

of their part of the plan. Private citizens and/or local businesses may request

an update within the five‐ year planning cycle also. All request made by

private citizens and/or local businesses must be made directly to the EMA.

~ 179 ~

In the event modifications to the plan are warranted as a result of the annual

review or other conditions, the Committee will oversee and approve all

revisions to the plan. Before any revisions are submitted to the jurisdictions

for adoption, a notice will be placed in the local newspaper, allowing an

opportunity for the public to review the proposed amendments at the EMA

offices, submit written comments, and present comments at a public

meeting. The Committee will then submit all revisions for adoption by all of

the jurisdictions. A copy of the plan revisions will be submitted to all holders

of the original plan in a timely manner.

At the end of the five‐year cycle of the Action Program, the Committee will

oversee a major update to the plan that follows the federal planning criteria

in effect at the time of the update. The updated plan will again be submitted

to the AEMA and FEMA for approval.

A critical part of maintaining an effective and relevant natural hazards

mitigation plan is ongoing public review and comment. Consequently, the

Hazard Mitigation Planning Committee is dedicated to direct involvement of

its citizens in providing feedback and comments on the plan throughout the

five‐year implementation cycle. To this end, a hard copy of the plan will be

available for viewing at all appropriate agencies throughout the County;

including, at a minimum, the Marengo County Emergency Management

Agency Office, the office of the County Commission, the offices of the

Mayors, and the main public library.

The Marengo County Hazard Mitigation Plan will be incorporated into

existing planning mechanisms in all participating jurisdictions. However,

since Marengo County is rural with negligible growth, there are few existing

planning mechanisms available. Those jurisdictions with building codes or

zoning ordinances will incorporate hazard mitigation strategies into existing

codes. These updates will occur as budgets and time allow. Those

jurisdictions without building codes or zoning ordinances, that decide to

adopt new ordinances, will be required to reflect the goals and objectives

they set forth in the plan. Those jurisdictions updating comprehensive plans

will also have to reflect their hazard mitigation goals and objectives in their

plan. The Marengo County EMA will also incorporate the plan in the

Emergency Operations Plan at the next update. The mitigation plan was

reviewed to ensure that any proposed changes (i.e. land use) would not

conflict with strategies identified in the plan. The mitigation plan will also be

consulted to ensure that no hazards (i.e. landslides, subsidence, and

~ 180 ~

expansive soil) are present when permits or variances are granted.

Strategies and goals identified in the mitigation plan will also be

incorporated into other planning mechanisms’ strategies and goals. As other

jurisdictions update their plans, the same steps will be followed.

7. Approval and Adoption – After preliminary review by FEMA, each jurisdiction in

Marengo County will adopt the plan via resolution. The Marengo County plan update

applies to all local agencies, board, commission, and departments assigned mitigation

responsibilities, and to others as deigned by the Marengo County Commission or

Director or the Marengo County Emergency Management Agency.

The Marengo County Multi‐Hazard Mitigation Plan Update was prepared in

compliance with Public Law 106‐390, Disaster Mitigation Act of 2000, as amended.

This plan update implements hazard mitigation measures intended to eliminate or

reduce the effects of further disaster throughout Marengo County, and was

developed in a joint and cooperate venture by members of the Marengo County

Hazard Mitigation Planning Committee.

Marengo County will comply with all application state and federal statutes and

regulations in effect with respect to the periods for which it received grant funding, in

compliance with 44 Code of Federal Regulations (CDF) 113.11c. Marengo County will

amend its plan whenever necessary to reflect changes in local/state and/or federal

laws and statutes required in 44 CFR, 12,11d. At a minimum, the Marengo County

Emergency Management Agency will review and if necessary, update the plan every

five years from the date of approval in accordance with 44 CRF, 201.6 (5) (d0 (3) in

order to continue program eligibility.

~ i ~

7. Appendices

a. Appendix A – 44 CFR 201 Hazard Mitigation Planning

~ ii ~

~ iii ~

~ iv ~

~ v ~

~ vi ~

~ vii ~

~ viii ~

~ ix ~

~ x ~

~ xi ~

~ xii ~

~ xiii ~

b. Appendix B – Sign in sheets and agendas for each meeting

~ xiv ~

~ xv ~

~ xvi ~

~ xvii ~

~ xviii ~

~ xix ~

~ xx ~

c. Appendix C – Resolutions by each entity adopting the Plan Update

~ xxi ~

Appendix D Local Mtigation Plan Review Tool.

~ xxii ~

~ xxiii ~

~ xxiv ~

~ xxv ~

~ xxvi ~

~ xxvii ~

~ xxviii ~

~ xxix ~

Documents

Marengo County, Alabama - Alabama Emergency … · Drought/Heat Waves ... Table 9 Lightning events in Marengo County, Alabama since ... Geographic setting and history – Marengo